Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

April 2, 2023
Los Angeles, California

The crowd roars, a tidal wave of sound that crashes over Roman Reigns as he stands at the top of the ramp, the weight of the WWE Championship heavy around his waist, the Wise Man behind him with his Universal Championship, and Solo following, ever the loyal soldier. The Tribal Chief doesn’t flinch. He never does. His face is a mask of calm dominance to reflect that of the character he plays, but quietly, the man underneath it all—well, his pulse races. Not from the blinding lights or cameras in his face, not even from the adrenaline of WrestleMania 39 and the tens of thousands of fans filling SoFi Stadium. 

It’s him. Cody Rhodes. The golden boy of professional wrestling, the man who has worked years to get to this spot, fighting tooth and nail to prove himself.

The man who once held Roman’s heart in the palm of his hands. The man Roman is still desperately in love with but refuses to admit to anyone else.

He’s done a good job (alright, decent job at the very least) of hiding it, of burying it beneath layers of fear and pride, but the truth is as undeniable as Cody himself. His return to WWE last year had ripped open wounds Roman thought were long healed. 

Cody is already in the ring pacing, his red, white, and blue American Nightmare gear a stark contrast to Roman’s own black pants and blood red gloves and shoes. Roman’s chest tightens as he steps forward, the pyro erupting behind him like a declaration of war.

But this isn’t war. Not really.

He’s supposed to be the stoic one, the unshakable Tribal Chief. But all Roman can focus on is the way Cody had looked at him during the final rehearsal this morning, a flicker of longing that has become more frequent lately. 

Then backstage, hours earlier, they’d crossed paths again in the dimly lit hallways, far from the cameras and the chaos. 

Standing in the bustling hallway, Roman’s eyes scan the chaos around him—crew members scrambling, wrestlers hyping themselves up, cameras rolling—but his focus is elsewhere. It’s always elsewhere when Cody is nearby.

Roman can feel him before he sees him. 

He turns and spots Cody, leaning against a wall, his signature jacket already in place. The American Nightmare looks as polished as ever, his smile a weapon even when it’s not directed at anyone in particular. Roman feels that familiar tug in his chest, the one he’s been burying for months—no, years. Cody’s laugh carries over the noise, and Roman’s jaw tightens.

They’ve been here before, this cycle of theirs. They’ve danced around it, flirted with it, almost crossed the line more times than he can count. Close enough to touch but always pulling back. Always. Everyone backstage knows their history, but no one brings it up. It’s an unspoken rule, much like if you, as the opponent, hold the champion’s title on the Raw or Smackdown before a PLE, you’re definitely not coming out victorious. 

The past is the past, except when it’s not.

Roman steps forward, his boots hitting the floor with a quiet thud. Cody turns, his smile shifting into one of familiarity and intimacy. “Hey,” he says, his voice casual but laced with a fondness that makes Roman’s heart thump harder.

“Hey,” Roman replies, leaning against the wall next to him. They’re shoulder to shoulder, the heat between them almost tangible.

“Big night,” Cody says, gesturing toward the arena. “You ready to put on a show?”

Roman smirks. “Always. You?”

Cody chuckles, running a hand through his hair. “You know me. I live for this.”

There’s a pause, heavy with words unspoken. Roman feels the weight of it in the air, that familiar tension that’s been building since Roman visited Cody in Atlanta following his pec injury. Or maybe it started when Cody returned to the WWE. 

Honestly and more likely? Since the moment they broke up nearly 7 years ago. 

The breakup that defined his entire life and left it impossible to move on to anyone else. Now he’s reduced to pretending that a friendship with the only man he ever pictured a future with is enough to satisfy him.

He glances at Cody, taking in the curve of his jaw, the way his lips part slightly as he exhales. Damn it.

He clears his through and attempts to talk through the awkwardness. “You’ve been killin’ it lately,” Roman says, his voice low.

Cody turns to him, his eyes meeting Roman’s. “Thanks. Means a lot, coming from you.”

The words hang between them, charged with meaning. They both know it’s not just about the matches, the promos, the rivalry. It’s about what they used to be and what they could be again.

Roman’s hand twitches at his side, the urge to reach out almost overwhelming. He clenches his fist, forcing himself to stay still. “You’ve always had it in you,” he says, his tone measured.

Roman doesn’t know why he says it. He means it, of course he means it. He’s always believed in Cody and knew that he was destined for greatness. But saying it now, before their Wrestlemania match, seems almost masochistic. 

It can’t lead anywhere good.

The tension between them is thicker now, the kind that makes the air feel heavy. Roman’s heart pounds in his chest, but he doesn’t move. 

“Roman,” Cody says, his voice barely above a whisper.

Roman turns his head, their faces inches apart. He can see the heavy weight of longing in Cody’s eyes, the tremor of his upper lip. He smells like cologne and spearmint gum, a combination that’s uniquely him. Fuck.

“Yeah?” Roman replies, his voice rough.

Cody hesitates, his eyes searching Roman’s. For what, Roman isn’t sure. Answers, maybe. Or permission. Either way, it’s dangerous. 

Then he lifts a hand, as if to cup Roman’s jaw. “I—” Cody starts, but he’s cut off by a shout from across the room.

“Cody! Five minutes!”

Cody pulls back, his expression shifting into a more guarded look. He clears his throat, stepping away from the wall. “Duty calls,” he says, his tone light but his eyes still on Roman. “You’ve got a match to win, I’ve got a story to continue.” 

Roman nods, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Break a leg out there.”

Cody smirks, that familiar glint in his eye. “You too, Ro.”

The slip of the familiar nickname makes Roman take a deep breath, closing his eyes momentarily. 

Cody turns and walks away, his jacket swinging slightly with each step. Roman watches him go, his chest tight. This is why I keep my distance, he thinks. This is why I can’t let myself get too close again.

I had to find you, tell ya I need you
Tell you I set you apart 

Back in the present, Roman steps through the ropes and into the ring, head held high. Cody watches him, his expression unreadable. 

Roman barely hears the championship match introductions, doesn’t register the raucous crowd. His mind is plagued with the man he will always consider the love of his life.

Then the referee motions for the bell, and the match begins.

It’s brutal, as expected. Roman’s power clashes with Cody’s agility, each move calculated, each strike precise. The crowd eats it up, chanting their names, but Roman barely hears them. His focus is razor-sharp, locked on Cody. Every time they grapple, every time their bodies collide, it’s like a spark ignites in Roman’s chest.

At one point, Cody has him in a headlock, their bodies pressed close. Roman can feel Cody’s breath against his ear, can smell the faint trace of his cologne again. 

This match can’t end soon enough.

“You okay, big guy?” Cody whispers, his voice barely audible over the crowd.

Roman’s jaw tightens. “Never better,” he grits out, though his heart is racing for reasons that have nothing to do with the match.

Cody releases him, and Roman rolls away, his mind spinning. He shakes it off, focusing on the fight and the story he’s supposed to be telling with his face and his body. But the tension between them is undeniable, simmering beneath the surface of every move, every glance.

The match becomes a blur of intensity, each move calculated, each moment charged with the weight of their history. They’re both professionals, both masters of their craft, and the undercurrent of familiarity and intimacy that has nothing to do with the title or the storyline must simply be ignored, no matter how impossible it feels. 

But as they get into the final stretch… Roman realizes how much fun he’s having. It’s been years since he and Cody have wrestled one another and while Cody was always a highly skilled athlete, this version of Cody is operating on a level he’s rarely encountered in his opponents. It’s an odd mixture of pride and sadness at how much he’s missed out on.

The crazy spots have the audience losing their collective minds, and the interference from the Usos and Kevin and Sami bring everything to a fever pitch. Roman almost regrets the crescendo where Solo has to interfere and cost Cody the match. 

When Roman pins Cody, their faces are inches apart, and for a split second, he forgets where they are. All he sees is Cody, their breath mingling, the heat between them undeniable.

But then the referee counts to three and it’s all over.

Roman stands victorious, just as intended. But as he looks down at Cody, lying on the mat, something in his chest aches. Cody meets his gaze, his eyes unreadable, but Roman knows. 

He knows because he feels it too.

Never has he been more grateful that his character is a dominant champion with little regard for his competitors’ feelings. Rolling out of the ramp so that production can get the shot of him celebrating while Cody mourns the loss in the ring can’t come fast enough.

He simply can’t stand to look at the beautiful man in the ring any longer.

Questions of science, science and progress
Do not speak as loud as my heart

Backstage, the chaos of WrestleMania is starting to wind down. Roman moves through it like a ghost, after having shaken off his family and the Wise Man, his mind still in the ring. He makes his way through the maze of people before he enters the serenity of his locker room. He’s about to head to the shower when he hears the door open behind him and feet shuffling in. He knows who it is before he even turns around.

Cody stands there, his face flushed, his hair damp with sweat. He’s still in his gear, his chest rising and falling to catch his breath as if he ran here. “You didn’t stick around,” he says, his voice rough but steady.

“Didn’t think I needed to,” Roman replies, his tone carefully neutral.

Cody steps closer, and Roman’s body tenses. They’re alone now, no cameras, no crowd, no scripts. And not for the first time tonight, Roman feels the full weight of everything they’ve been avoiding.

“You know this isn’t just about the match and the scripted story, right?” Cody says, his voice quiet but firm. “It hasn’t been for a long time.”

Roman doesn’t answer. He can’t. Because if he does, he might say something he can’t take back. He might do something he can’t undo.

Cody steps even closer, and this time, Roman doesn’t move away. “Roman,” Cody says, his voice barely above a whisper. “Why are you acting like we’re strangers?”

Roman’s jaw tightens. “Because we are strangers now,” he says, the words sharp, even to his own ears. “We decided that when we broke up, remember?”

Cody’s face falls, and for a moment, Roman thinks he’s going to leave. But then Cody takes another step forward, closing the distance between them until there’s barely any space left. “I remember,” he says, his voice low. “But I also remember everything else. Every kiss, every I love you, every time you told me I was yours. Ro, please… I could never forget.” 

Roman’s breath catches, and he feels the walls he’s so carefully built start to crack. “Cody…”

“I’m tired of pretending,” Cody interrupts, his eyes searching Roman’s face. “Aren’t you?”

Roman doesn’t answer. He can’t. Because the truth is, he is tired. Tired of pretending, tired of hiding, tired of acting like he doesn’t feel the same way he’s felt for ten fucking years, since their very first date.  But saying it out loud would make it real. It would make it dangerous.

Because what if Cody leaves again? What if he exposes his heart and things fall apart? He couldn’t survive it for the second time, Roman’s sure of it, 

Cody’s hand brushes against Roman’s, and the contact sends a jolt through him. “Don’t shut me out,” Cody says, his voice barely a whisper. “Not now, not after everything we’ve gone through.”

Roman’s heart pounds in his chest, and for a moment, he thinks about giving in. About letting go of the walls and the distance and the lines they’ve drawn. But then he steps back, his jaw tightening. “We can’t do this,” he says, his voice rough but firm. “You know we can’t.”

Cody’s face falls, and for a moment, there’s silence between them. Then he nods, his expression hardening. “Yeah,” he says, his voice low. “Okay.”

He turns, opening up and walking through the door without closing it behind him, his footsteps echoing in the empty hallway. Roman watches him go, his chest tight, his mind racing. He knows he’s made the right choice. Logically he knows this is the way it has to be.

But as he stands there, alone in the quiet, he can’t help but wonder if he’s just made the second biggest mistake of his life.

But tell me you love me, come back and haunt me
Oh, and I rush to the start 

Chapter Text

March - December, 2013

Cody leans against the row of lockers tiredly, his arms crossed after the second house show of the night. Having been on the main roster for 5 years, the grind of the weekend schedule often gets to him, wears his mind and body down. 

But lately? He’s had something to look forward to. Someone. 

“You’re staring again,” Roman says, leaning back on the bench he’s sitting on, his voice low but playful. 

The locker room is not quite buzzing, but a good portion of the guys are still milling about, attempting to come down from their post-match highs. 

Cody grins, his hand mid-air as he reaches for his bag. “I wasn’t staring,” he replies quickly, a teasing lilt to his voice. He busies himself with zipping up his duffel, avoiding Roman’s gaze.

The two have formed somewhat of a friendship in recent months. Roman, being still green to the main roster, but put immediately into the limelight with The Shield, has been eager to learn the ropes and gravitated toward Cody for guidance, advice, and overall fantastic conversation between the two. 

But also? It’s not just about wrestling anymore; it’s about the quiet moments, the shared laughs, the way Roman’s voice softens when he talks about the things in life that make him tick.

Cody might be a tiny bit enamored with Roman. 

More than a tiny bit. He’s pretty sure he’s falling for the other man. 

Roman chuckles, that deep, rumbling sound that Cody has grown to associate with him. “Yeah, you were. You’ve been doing it all weekend.” He tilts his head, his dark eyes studying Cody with an intensity that makes the room feel smaller. “What’s up with that?”

Cody shrugs and momentarily pauses. What does he have to lose? They’re young, single—at least, he thinks Roman is single—and he doesn’t believe he’s imagining the sizzling chemistry they have. So he turns and smirks slyly. “You’re kinda hard not to look at, Reigns.” 

Roman stands then, towering over Cody effortlessly, his presence commanding as always. He takes a step closer, the air between them thickening, a twinkle in his brown eyes. (Cody loves it when he takes those awful grey contacts out). “Is that right, Rhodes?”

Cody laughs softly and runs a hand through his short hair. “Yep, that’s right.” 

Roman is about to respond when Seth shouts his name from across the room. Cody isn’t sure if he’s imagining it, but Roman looks irritated to be interrupted. He waves Seth away and rolls his eyes.

“So a few of us are going out tonight, nothing too crazy, just a couple drinks. You in?” Roman asks hopefully.

There is something about the way he asks that makes Cody’s stomach flutter. They’ve been spending more and more time together after shows, their friendship growing stronger with each passing week. It is easy, comfortable—and lately, Cody has started to notice things in addition to his own developing feelings. The way Roman’s hand brushes his shoulder after a joke, the way his eyes seem to linger a little too long when he thinks Cody isn’t looking.

And so Cody can’t help the hope that blooms in his chest. “Depends… you buying?”

The chuckle Roman lets out washes over Cody like a warm breeze. “Sure. I’m buying.” 

Time curious time
Gave me no compasses, gave me no sign

The bar is dimly lit and fairly busy, the kind of place where you can lose yourself in the noise and the shadows. Cody sits at a corner booth with Roman, Dean, and Seth. Next to them at a table are the Usos, Big E, Kofi, and Xavier. The overall vibe is friendly, if not a bit chaotic with everyone talking over each other. 

Between jovial laughter and trading of stories from the road, Cody nurses a light beer, his eyes flicking to Roman more often than he’d like to admit.

Roman’s in the middle of a story, his hands moving as he talks, his laugh deep and infectious. Cody can’t help but smile, drawn in by the way Roman commands the table without even trying. At work, Roman is typically quiet and reserved, but with his friends he’s open and expressive. So opposite the character he plays onscreen who is intimidating and brutal. There’s something magnetic about this side of him that makes Cody want to lean in closer, to hang on every word.

At one point, their knees brush under the table, and Cody freezes for a second, the contact sending a jolt through him. He glances at Roman, but his expression is unreadable, his attention still on the conversation. Maybe it was an accident. Maybe.

The hours slip by, the group thinning out as guys head back to the hotel one by one. Cody and Roman barely notice as they find themselves too caught up in their deep conversation to care. When Dean and Seth scoot off to head across the bar for a game of pool, it’s just the two of them left, the empty glasses on the table a testament to how long they’ve been sitting there.

“Didn’t mean to keep you out so late,” Roman says, his voice soft now, almost intimate in the quiet of the bar.

Cody shrugs, leaning back in his seat. “It’s fine. I’m not ready to call it a night yet anyway.”

Roman watches him for a moment, his dark eyes searching Cody’s face. There’s a tension between them now, unspoken but undeniable. Cody feels it in the way Roman’s gaze lingers, in the way the air seems to hum when they’re this close. Cody’s heart pounds as he watches Roman’s eyes flicker down to his lips, then back up.

“So,” Roman clears his throat. “I have something I’ve been wanting to ask you.” 

The hesitance in Roman’s voice immediately intrigues Cody. He leans forward in interest. “Go on,” he encourages kindly.

Roman stretches his neck once before he comes out with it in one quick sentence. “What’s between you and Randy?” 

Whatever he thought Roman was going to ask, this is the least surprising of all them. It’s not the first time his relationship with his mentor and close friend has been questioned. So he giggles and takes a sip of his beer. “He’s a very close friend. Probably my best friend these days.” Cody intentionally leaves it at that to see where Roman will go next. 

Roman squints, catching on to Cody. “And that’s it?”

“That’s it,” Cody confirms. “He’s in a very happy relationship. With someone not me. And I am very much okay with that.” 

The relief is evident in the way Roman’s shoulders release tension and that gives Cody another spark of hope. He’s interested. 

Knowing that, Cody shoots his own shot. “So. You and Seth? Is there anything—“ 

Roman barks out a laugh. “No, god no. Love him like a brother but I’d go crazy trying to keep a relationship going with his specific brand of chaos.”

Cody giggles again. He likes Seth a lot, but he can see that the other man would be chaotic in a relationship. “Okay, I get it. And Dean?” 

“Nah,” Roman shakes his head again.

“And no… you, Seth, and Dean?” Cody teases. A little. There have been no shortage of rumors and curiosity in the locker room about how close the trio has become.

Roman rolls his eyes and puffs out an incredulous laugh. “Why does everyone ask that?! They’re my best friends, my brothers. That’s it.” 

Laughing, Cody dips his head and holds his hands up in surrender. “Okay. Good.”

“Good?” Roman questions. 

Cody leans forward, setting one hand on the table between them, his pinky just touching Roman’s. “Very good,” he softly confirms.

When Roman inches his hand closer to cover Cody’s with his own, Seth plops back down in the booth and they jump apart, the moment broken. 

“Boys, it’s nearing 2AM and we’ve got to get up early to head to Pittsburgh,” Seth reminds them. His eyes quickly dart between them and a less-than-subtle smirk makes its way onto his face. 

Rolling his eyes deliberately at Seth, Roman softens a bit when he looks back to Cody. “You ready to call it a night?” 

Shrugging, Cody stands and stretches. “Not particularly, but I guess it’s the smart thing to do.” 

As they walk out, Cody tries really hard not to get too excited every time Roman’s hand brushes against his own.

Were there clues I didn’t see?

The catering area is bustling with energy, the usual hum of chatter and clinking utensils filling the air. Cody leans against the counter, a half-eaten sandwich in hand, his eyes scanning the room out of habit. It’s a familiar scene—wrestlers grabbing quick bites before their segments, production crew rushing in and out. 

Yet again, Cody finds himself distracted by Roman. The man in question is standing just a few feet away, his broad shoulders framed by the black tactical vest he's got on in preparation for his segment, and Cody can’t help but feel the pull of his presence.

Roman catches his eye, a slow smirk spreading across his face. “You’re not usually one to linger in here,” he says, his voice low and teasing as he approaches.

Cody shrugs, trying to keep his tone casual. “What can I say? The sandwiches are better than usual.”

Roman chuckles, the sound warm and inviting. “Or maybe you’re just enjoying the company.”

There’s a glint in his eyes, that same boundary-pushing confidence Cody’s come to both admire and find slightly unnerving. 

“Could be,” Cody replies, his voice steady despite the flutter in his chest. He takes another bite of his sandwich, more to give himself something to do than because he’s actually hungry.

Roman steps closer, his presence filling the space between them. “You know, I’ve been thinking,” he says, his tone casual but laced with what sounds like desire. “We’ve been spending a lot of time together lately.”

“Is that a problem?” Cody asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Not at all. Just… interesting.” Roman’s smirk softens into a grin that is more genuine, almost vulnerable. “I like it.”

Cody feels his pulse quicken. “I like it too.”

The room seems to fade around them, the noise and movement blurring into the background. They’re standing close now, so close that Cody can smell the faint hint of cologne on Roman’s skin, a mix of sandalwood and something earthy. He notices the way Roman’s chest rises and falls with each breath, the way his vest clings to his muscles, and suddenly the sandwich in his hand feels like a mere distraction.

“Cody,” Roman says, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve been wanting to do something for a while now.”

Cody swallows hard, his mouth suddenly dry. “What’s that?”

Roman hesitates for a moment, his eyes searching Cody’s face as if looking for permission. Then, with a deep breath, he says, “I’ve been wanting to kiss you.”

The air between them crackles with electricity. Cody feels his body lean in almost involuntarily, drawn to Roman like a magnet. His heart is pounding in his chest, and he’s sure Roman can hear it. “I’ve been wanting that too,” he admits, his voice barely audible.

Their faces are inches apart now, their breaths mingling in the space between them. Roman’s eyes drop to Cody’s lips, and for a moment, it feels inevitable. Cody can almost feel the heat of Roman’s mouth on his, the anticipation sending a jolt of desire through him.

But then, the sound of a tray clattering to the floor breaks the spell. They both jerk back, the moment shattered as reality comes crashing in. Cody glances around, suddenly hyper-aware of the people in the room, the eyes that might be watching. His cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

Roman steps back, running a hand through his hair. “This isn’t exactly the best place for… that,” he says, his tone light but tinged with regret.

Cody nods, trying to steady his breathing. “You’re not wrong.”

There’s a beat of silence, charged with unspoken words. Then Roman takes a deep breath, his focus sharpening as he locks eyes with Cody. “Let’s go out tonight. Just the two of us.”

Cody raises an eyebrow. “Like a date?”

“Yeah,” Roman says, his voice steady but with a hint of vulnerability. “If you’re up for it.”

Cody feels a smile tug at the corners of his lips. “I’m up for it.”

Roman nods, his expression serious but with a glint of something playful in his eyes. “Good. Be changed and ready to go by 11:30. I know the perfect place that’s open late.” 

“You know the perfect place in Pittsburgh?” Cody teases.

The faint scarlet that graces Roman’s cheeks is a sight Cody will never forget. “I may have looked into it.” 

That admission alone makes Cody’s heart thump wildly. “11:30 it is,” he agrees softly. 

Time, mystical time
Cutting me open, then healing me fine

The car ride is quiet, the hum of the engine a steady backdrop to the tension simmering between them. Roman’s hands grip the steering wheel, his knuckles white against the leather. Cody watches him out of the corner of his eye, noting the way Roman’s jaw tenses and relaxes as if he’s weighing his words carefully. The city lights blur past the windows, casting fleeting shadows across Roman’s face. Cody can’t help but feel a pull, something magnetic drawing him closer, even though they’re separated by the console.

“So where is this perfect place you’ve found?” Cody questions. 

Roman responds, his voice low and steady. “A little Italian restaurant just outside the city. Quiet. Intimate. Thought it might be a good spot for… us.”

Cody raises an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Us, huh? Sounds like you’ve got this all planned out.”

“Maybe,” Roman admits, glancing over at him with a grin that’s equal parts mischievous and confident. “Or maybe I just like the idea of having you all to myself.”

Cody laughs softly, the sound warm and genuine. “Keep talking like that, and you might just get your wish.”

The restaurant is tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, a place neither of them has been before. It’s small, cozy, the kind of spot where the lighting is just dim enough to feel private but not so dark that you can’t see the person across from you. Roman holds the door open for Cody again, his hand brushing against the small of Cody’s back as they step inside. The touch is fleeting, but it sends a shiver down Cody’s spine.

They’re seated at a corner table, the candlelight flickering between them. The waitress, a woman with tired eyes and a weary smile, takes their drink orders and leaves them in silence. Cody leans back in his chair, studying Roman across the table. “You’re full of surprises tonight.”

“Good ones, I hope.” Roman’s tone is light, teasing, but there’s an intensity in his gaze that betrays how much he’s invested in this moment.

“So far, so good.” Cody grins, leaning forward slightly. “But I’m still waiting for the main event.”

Roman chuckles, the sound deep and resonant. “Patience, Cody. It’s a virtue.”

The waitress returns with their drinks, and they fall into easy conversation. They talk about their dreams—Roman’s desire to leave a lasting legacy in the business, Cody’s ambition to redefine what it means to be a Rhodes and capture what his father never could. The words flow effortlessly between them, the kind of conversation that feels like uncovering layers, one by one, until you reach something raw and true.

At one point, Roman leans forward, his elbows resting on the table. “You ever think about how weird this job is?” Roman asks suddenly, his tone shifting.

Cody raises an eyebrow. “All the time. Why?”

“I don’t know. Sometimes it feels like we’re playing these characters, these larger-than-life versions of ourselves, and it’s easy to forget who we really are underneath it all.”

Cody nods, sensing the weight behind Roman’s words. “Yeah. It’s a lot to carry. But I think… I think it helps when you’ve got people around you who get it.”

Roman looks at him, his gaze intense. “Do you think I get it?”

Cody holds his breath for a moment, caught off guard by the question. “I think you’re one of the few people who do.”

Roman’s expression softens, and for a moment, neither of them speaks. “Do you ever regret not going to Hollywood? Not following through on those acting classes?”

Dipping his head a little, Cody chuckles softly. “Not even a little. The goal—the dream—it was always professional wrestling. WWE. Just took a little detour, but really… it only helped. So much of what I learned out there translates to whatever emotion I’m trying to convey in the ring, whatever storyline I’m placed in. I think it was the right stepping stone before getting to where I was meant to be.” 

Roman nods in understanding, clearly caught up in Cody’s every word. It makes Cody feel wanted and valued and every good feeling he can think of. He could get a natural high from the way Roman is staring at him. 

Clearing his throat, he asks his own question. “And what about you? Does it ever bother you that your football career got cut short?” 

“At first? Yeah, of course,” Roman admits. “I always loved wrestling. Growing up with my dad, my family’s legacy—how could I not, right?” Cody nods enthusiastically. He gets it. “But football was something I could do for myself. Make my own. When I got sick…” Roman pauses and breathes deep. “When I got sick, it was a punch in the gut. Not just because of everything that comes with having cancer, but what it took from me outside of the physical aspect.”

“Wow,” Cody breathes quietly. “How did you move past that?” 

“I had no choice,” Roman huffs out a laugh. “I could either let it defeat me or fight like hell and maintain a positive mindset.” 

“You fought through adversity,” Cody compliments, in awe.

“Just did what I had to do to survive,” Roman says bashfully.

They’re interrupted by their meals arriving. As they dig in to the delicious food, something else strikes Cody. He sets his fork down, chewing thoughtfully before speaking. “Isn’t it funny how similar our paths have been? Legacy wrestling fathers, growing up with them in the spotlight, living in the south. You went to Georgia Tech—just 30 minutes from where I grew up. Got there just as I left for LA and then joined WWE.” 

Roman nods along, seemingly taking the information in. “Parallel paths,” he says softly. 

The air between them shifts, the weight of their shared vulnerability settling over the table. Cody feels exposed, but not in a way that’s uncomfortable. It’s more like he’s finally being seen, truly seen, by someone who understands.

As the meal winds down, the conversation turns to lighter topics—funny stories from the road, ridiculous fan encounters, the kind of banter that feels like an inside joke. But even as they laugh, there’s an undercurrent of emotional tension.

When the check comes, Roman insists on paying, brushing off Cody’s protests with a wave of his hand. “You can get the next one,” he says with a wink that makes Cody’s stomach flip.

They step out into the night, the cool air a sharp contrast to the warmth of the restaurant. Roman turns to Cody, his hands in his pockets, his expression unreadable. “So, it’s getting late. As much as I don’t want this night to end…”

Cody looks at his watch and realizes they’ve crossed into the next day. They really should get back, as much as he wants this date to last forever. “Alright, Reigns. Take us back to the hotel.” 

—

The drive back to the hotel is quiet, but not uncomfortable. The hum of the car engine fills the space between them, and Cody can’t help but steal glances at Roman, who’s focused on the road but doesn’t seem immune to the tension either. Their hands rest close on the center console, and every time Roman shifts gears, his fingers brush Cody’s, sending a jolt of electricity through him. By the time they pull into the hotel parking lot, Cody’s pulse is racing.

The elevator ride is worse. They stand side by side, the mirrored walls reflecting their shared tension. Cody’s eyes flicker to Roman’s reflection, and their gazes lock for a brief moment before Roman looks away, a smirk playing on his lips. The air feels thick, charged with heat and want. Cody’s heart pounds as the numbers on the elevator panel climb higher, each floor feeling like an eternity.

When the doors finally open on their floor, Roman steps out first, his posture relaxed but his movements deliberate. Cody follows, his footsteps echoing in the empty hallway. They reach Cody’s room first, and Roman turns to him, his voice low. “Guess this is your stop.”

Cody hesitates, his hand hovering over the door handle. He knows what he wants, but saying it out loud feels like crossing that final line. But the way Roman’s looking at him—steady, patient, but with that glint of something hot in his eyes—gives him the push he needs. “You could come in, if you want,” he says, his voice quieter than he intended.

Roman’s smirk deepens, and he takes a step closer, his presence filling the space. “You sure about that?”

Cody nods, his throat dry. “Yeah. I’m sure.”

Roman doesn’t hesitate. He steps into the room as Cody opens the door, and the moment it clicks shut behind them, the tension snaps. Roman’s hands are on him in an instant, pulling him close, and Cody’s breath catches in his chest as their lips meet. The kiss is electric, urgent but not hurried, as if they’re both savoring the feel of each other for the first time. Roman’s lips are soft but firm, and Cody can’t help but groan as Roman’s tongue slips into his mouth, deepening the kiss.

Roman’s hands slide down Cody’s back, gripping his hips and pulling him closer until their bodies are pressed together. Cody can feel the heat of Roman’s chest through their shirts, and the hard line of his arousal pressing against his own. He tangles his fingers in Roman’s hair, tugging gently so that long tresses are released from the bun, and Roman growls against his mouth, the sound sending a shiver down Cody’s spine.

When they finally break apart, both of them are breathing hard. Roman’s eyes are dark, filled with a hunger that makes Cody’s knees weak. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that,” Roman murmurs, his voice rough.

“I think I have some idea,” Cody replies, his voice just as unsteady. He reaches up, tracing the line of Roman’s jaw with his fingers, and Roman leans into the touch, his eyes never leaving Cody’s.

Roman steps closer, his hands moving to the hem of Cody’s shirt. “Can I?” he asks, his voice low and steady.

Cody nods, and Roman pulls the shirt over his head, tossing it aside. His hands roam over Cody’s chest, fingers brushing over his abs, and Cody shivers under the touch. “You’re gorgeous. I’m so fucking into you,” Roman says, his voice barely above a whisper.

Cody’s face flushes, but he doesn’t have time to respond before Roman’s lips are on his neck, trailing hot, open-mouthed kisses down to his collarbone. Cody tilts his head back, his hands gripping Roman’s shoulders as Roman’s teeth graze his skin, sending a jolt of pleasure through him.

Roman’s hands move lower, unbuckling Cody’s belt and sliding his pants down his hips. Cody steps out of them, his heart racing as Roman drops to his knees in front of him. “Roman—” he starts, but the words catch in his throat as Roman’s hands slide up his thighs, gripping his hips.

Roman looks up at him, his eyes dark with desire. “Relax, baby boy,” he says, his voice a low rumble that sends a shiver down Cody’s spine. “I’ve got you.”

Cody’s breath hitches as Roman’s lips close around him, the heat of his mouth making his knees buckle. Roman’s hands grip his hips, steadying him, and Cody tangles his fingers in Roman’s hair, unable to hold back the moan that escapes his lips. Roman’s tongue swirls around him, and Cody’s head falls back, his eyes closing as pleasure courses through him. The unexpected term of endearment, the feeling of Roman’s wet mouth, knowing that they’re finally, finally here. It’s all too much. 

“God, Roman,” Cody gasps, his voice trembling. “You’re so good at this.”

Roman hums in response, the vibration making Cody’s legs shake. He moves with a rhythm that has Cody seeing stars, his hands gripping Roman’s hair as he struggles to keep himself upright. “I’m close,” he warns, his voice strained.

Roman pulls back, his lips slick and his eyes blazing. “Not yet,” he says, his voice rough. “I want you to come when I’m inside you.”

Cody’s knees almost give out at the words, and he nods, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Roman stands, pulling him into another kiss as he guides them toward the bed. Cody’s back hits the mattress, and Roman climbs over him, his hands roaming over Cody’s body as he kisses him deeply.

Roman’s lips trail down his chest, his tongue flicking over Cody’s nipples, and Cody arches into the touch, his hands gripping the sheets. “You’re driving me crazy,” Cody gasps, his voice trembling.

Roman chuckles, the sound low and rough. “Good,” he says, his hands sliding down to grip Cody’s hips. “Because I’m not done with you yet.”

Cody’s breath catches as Roman’s fingers brush over his entrance, teasing him until he’s trembling with need. “Ro, please,” he begs, his voice barely above a whisper.

Roman smirks at the nickname, his eyes dark with desire. “Tell me what you want, baby boy.”

“I want you,” Cody gasps, his voice trembling. “Please, I need you.”

Roman’s eyes soften, but the hunger in them doesn’t waver. “You’ve got me,” he says, his voice rough. 

Quickly undressing, Roman wastes no time in taking his clothes off. Cody can’t help but have his breath taken away at the beautiful sight of golden skin, tattooed muscles, and thick, powerful thighs. When his eyes get to Roman’s cock, he clenches internally, unable to wait much longer before he feels it inside of him.

Watching as Roman slicks himself with lube, he makes Roman stop as he goes to slick his fingers to prepare Cody. “Don’t. I want to feel it.”

Roman’s eyes darken. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” Cody whispers. He won’t reveal to Roman just yet how much he loves the pain.

Cody’s breath hitches as Roman lines himself up, and then he’s pressing inside, slow and steady, giving Cody time to adjust. The stretch burns, but it’s a good burn, the kind that makes Cody’s head spin and his body come alive. Roman’s hands grip his hips, holding him in place as he thrusts forward, and Cody’s back arches off the bed, a moan escaping his lips.

“You feel so good,” Roman growls, his voice strained. “So tight, baby boy.”

Cody’s nails dig into Roman’s back, his legs wrapping around his waist as Roman picks up the pace. Each thrust sends waves of pleasure coursing through him, and he’s quickly losing himself in the sensation. Roman’s lips find his neck, biting and sucking at the sensitive skin, and Cody’s moans fill the room.

“I’m close,” Cody gasps, his voice trembling. “Ro, I’m so close.”

“Come for me, baby boy,” Roman growls, his voice rough and demanding. “Squeeze my cock.”

Cody’s body tightens, and then he’s coming, his back arching off the bed as pleasure explodes through him. Roman’s thrusts falter, and he groans, burying his face in Cody’s neck as he follows him over the edge.

They collapse together, both of them breathing hard, their bodies slick with sweat. Roman’s arms wrap around Cody, pulling him close, and Cody rests his head on Roman’s chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

Whatever this is, Cody certainly hopes it’s just the beginning.

Something wrapped all my past mistakes in barbed wire

Cody’s heart is still pounding as he and Dustin celebrate their tag team victory backstage after Battleground, the gold title belts slung over their shoulders. He’s grinning ear to ear, sweat dripping down his temples, but his mind keeps drifting to Roman. His boyfriend. He’s been the center of Cody’s thoughts for months now, their connection deepening with every kiss, every whispered promise, each night they spend together. But tonight, Cody can’t shake the feeling that something’s off. Roman had been… quieter than usual, even as he congratulated him after the match.

As if summoned by his thoughts, Roman appears at the edge of the chaos, his dark eyes locking with Cody’s. He’s still in his gear, but his contacts have been removed and there’s no trace of the brutality he displayed in the ring. Instead, there’s a softness in his gaze, a warmth that makes Cody’s stomach flutter. Roman jerks his head toward the hallway, a silent invitation. 

Dustin, ever the perceptive brother, gives Cody a knowing look before clapping him on the shoulder with a grin. “I’ll let you two… talk,” he says, winking as he gently pushes his brother forward. Cody rolls his eyes but doesn’t protest. Cody walks out to the hallway to join Roman. Once they’re alone, Roman steps closer, his voice low.

“You were incredible out there,” Roman says as they walk, his voice low and gravelly. “You and Dustin… you deserved that win.”

Cody grins, bumping his shoulder against Roman’s. “Thanks. You guys put up one hell of a fight to make it look good.”

Roman’s smile falters, just for a moment, and Cody’s brow furrows. What’s going on with him? Before he can ask, Roman clears his throat. “Let’s get out of here. I’ve got something… special planned for tonight. To celebrate.”

Cody’s pulse quickens. “Yeah?”

Roman nods, but there’s a hesitation in his movements, a nervous energy that Cody isn’t used to seeing in him. He’s usually so confident, Cody thinks, his heart aching with the need to soothe whatever’s troubling him.

The walk to the hotel is quiet, the night air cool against Cody’s skin. He glances at Roman, who’s staring straight ahead, his jaw tight. “You okay?” Cody asks, his voice gentle.

Roman nods, but it’s not convincing. “Yeah. Just… thinking.”

Cody reaches for his hand, interlacing their fingers. “Talk to me.”

Roman squeezes his hand, but stays silent. The tension between them is palpable, and Cody’s mind races with possibilities. Is he having second thoughts? Does he regret—

They reach the hotel room, and Roman pulls out the keycard, his hands trembling slightly. Cody’s concern deepens, but he stays quiet, letting Roman lead the way. The room is dimly lit, the bed neatly made, and Cody can’t help but notice the faint scent of Roman’s cologne lingering in the air.

Roman closes the door behind them, his shoulders tense. He turns to Cody, his gaze intense but unsure. “I want this night to be perfect for you,” he says, his voice rough.

Cody steps closer, his hands resting on Roman’s chest. “It already is. Just being here with you… that’s all I need.”

Roman’s breath hitches, and for a moment, he looks like he’s about to say something. Instead, he leans in, his lips capturing Cody’s in a searing kiss. It’s desperate, almost frantic, as if he’s trying to convey something words can’t express. Cody melts into it, his hands tangling in Roman’s hair, his body pressing closer.

They stumble toward the bed, clothes discarded in a haphazard trail. Roman’s hands roam over Cody’s body, his touch electric, but there’s a hesitance in his movements, a carefulness that wasn’t there before. Cody pulls back slightly, his heart aching. “Ro… talk to me. What’s wrong?”

Roman stares at him, his dark eyes filled with emotion. “I… I’ve never felt like this before,” he admits, his voice trembling. “Never wanted someone this much. Never… loved someone this much.”

Cody’s breath catches, his heart stuttering in his chest. “Roman…”

“I love you,” Roman says, the words spilling out in a rush. “I’ve been trying to say it for weeks, but I… I was scared. I just can’t keep it in anymore. I’m so in love with you, Cody.”

Tears prick at Cody’s eyes, and he pulls Roman into a tight embrace, his lips finding his in a heated kiss. “I love you too,” he murmurs against his lips. “So much.”

The admission ignites something between them, a fire that’s been smoldering for weeks finally bursting into flame. Roman’s hands slide down Cody’s back, gripping his hips as he lays him down on the bed. Cody’s heart is racing, his body trembling with anticipation as Roman hovers over him, his eyes locked on his.

“You’re so beautiful, baby boy,” Roman whispers, his voice thick with emotion. He trails kisses down Cody’s neck, his chest, his stomach, every touch sending shivers through Cody’s body. When his lips find Cody’s cock, Cody gasps, his fingers tangling in Roman’s hair.

Roman pulls off his cock with a wet pop, quickly bending Cody’s legs back to move his mouth lower. Cody moans loudly when Roman’s mouth finds his velvety entrance, his tongue dipping inside the tight heat. Cody’s head falls back against the pillows, his breath coming in ragged gasps as pleasure courses through him. “Roman… fuck,” he moans, his hips lifting off the bed.

Roman pulls back, his eyes dark with desire. “I need to be inside you,” he says, his voice rough. “Please.”

Cody nods, his body aching for him. “Yes. Please.”

Roman retrieves the lube from the nightstand, his hands shaking as he coats his fingers. He presses a kiss to Cody’s inner thigh before sliding a finger inside him, his touch gentle but insistent. Cody whimpers, his body arching into the sensation.

“Relax,” Roman murmurs, his lips brushing against Cody’s skin as he adds a second finger, stretching him slowly. Cody’s breath hitches, his hands gripping the sheets as Roman’s fingers curl inside him, hitting that spot that makes his vision blur.

“Ro… please,” Cody begs, his voice trembling. “I need you inside me, baby.”

Roman pulls his fingers out, his eyes locking with Cody’s as he positions himself at his entrance. He pushes in slowly, the stretch intense but achingly good. Cody gasps, his legs wrapping around Roman’s waist as he sinks deeper, the feeling overwhelming.

“You’re perfect,” Roman whispers, his voice breaking as he bottoms out. He stills, giving Cody time to adjust, his hands trembling as they grip his hips.

Cody reaches up, cupping Roman’s face in his hands. “I love you,” he says, his voice steady despite the tremor in his body.

Roman leans down, capturing his lips in a heated kiss as he begins to move, his thrusts slow and deep. Every stroke sends sparks through Cody’s body, the pleasure building with each movement. He grips Roman’s shoulders, his nails digging into his skin as he matches his rhythm, their bodies moving in perfect sync.

The room is filled with the sound of their ragged breaths, the slick slide of skin against skin, the occasional moan or whimper that escapes their lips. Roman’s thrusts become more urgent, his hands roaming over Cody’s body as if memorizing every inch of him.

“I’m close,” Cody gasps, his voice trembling with the effort to hold on.

Roman nods, his movements becoming erratic. “Me too,” he says, his voice rough. “Come with me.”

Cody’s body tightens, his back arching as he spills between them, his release intense and all-consuming. Roman follows him over the edge, his hips stuttering as he buries himself deep inside Cody, his release hot and overwhelming.

They stay like that for a moment, their bodies trembling, their breaths shallow. Roman presses his forehead against Cody’s, his eyes closed as he catches his breath. “I love you,” he whispers, his voice soft but filled with conviction.

Cody wraps his arms around him, pulling him closer. “I love you too,” he says. 

One single thread of gold tied me to you 

Cody feels the warmth of Roman’s hand intertwined with his as they step into the Husky rescue center. The air is filled with the sound of barking dogs, their tails wagging furiously as they press against the metal gates of their enclosures. Roman’s grip tightens slightly, and Cody glances over at him, catching the hint of a smirk playing on his lips. He’s enjoying this, Cody thinks, and the realization sends a flutter through his chest.

“You’re really into this, huh?” Cody teases, nudging Roman with his shoulder.

Roman shrugs, but the smirk doesn’t fade. “Just excited to see you get what you’ve been hinting at for months. Couldn’t let that puppy-dog look of yours go unanswered forever.”

Cody rolls his eyes, but he’s grinning. It’s true—he’s been dropping not-so-subtle hints about wanting a dog, and Roman, ever the attentive partner, had picked up on it immediately. The thought makes Cody’s heart swell. Roman’s always been good at reading him, at knowing what he needs before Cody even fully realizes it himself. It’s one of the many reasons he’s fallen so hard for him.

They’re greeted by a volunteer who leads them through the facility, explaining the process and introducing them to a few of the dogs. Cody’s eyes dart from one to the next, each one more adorable than the last, but it’s the white Siberian Husky that catches his attention. The dog’s piercing blue eyes lock onto his, and there’s an intelligence in them that feels almost human. Cody kneels down, extending his hand slowly. Pharaoh sniffs it cautiously before licking his fingers, his tail wagging in approval.

“Hey, buddy,” Cody murmurs, his voice soft. “You’re a beauty, aren’t you?”

Roman kneels beside him, his presence solid and grounding. Cody can feel the heat of his body even through their clothes, and it sends a shiver down his spine. Roman reaches out, his large hand gently stroking Pharaoh’s fur. The dog leans into the touch, his tail wagging even faster.

“He’s perfect,” Roman says, his voice low and warm. “Just like you said he’d be.”

Cody looks over at him, his heart pounding. There’s something about seeing Roman like this—gentle, patient, so completely in his element—that makes Cody fall a little more in love with him. He’s not just my partner, Cody thinks. He’s my everything.

“What do you want to name him?” Roman asks, rubbing his hands over the dog’s soft fur.

“Pharaoh,” Cody says decisively. 

“Pharaoh,” Roman repeats fondly. “I love it.” 

They spend the next hour interacting with Pharaoh, learning about his personality and needs from the staff. By the time they’re ready to leave, Cody’s certain: this is the dog for them. As they fill out the adoption paperwork, Roman’s hand finds the small of Cody’s back, his touch loving and reassuring. Cody leans into it, letting the warmth of Roman’s presence soothe the nervous excitement bubbling inside him.

The drive back to Cody’s apartment is filled with quiet conversation about Pharaoh and the life they’ll build together with him. Cody finds himself glancing over at Roman, taking in the sharp profile of his face, the way his hands grip the steering wheel with quiet confidence. Every now and then, Roman catches him looking, and the smirk returns, making Cody’s stomach flip.

Back at Cody’s apartment, they set up a crate, toys, and food bowls. Pharaoh immediately starts exploring, sniffing every corner with his tail wagging. Cody watches him with a grin, his heart swelling with affection.

Roman comes up behind him, wrapping his arms around Cody’s waist and resting his chin on his shoulder. “He’s cute,” he murmurs, his breath warm against Cody’s neck.

“Yeah,” Cody says, leaning back into Roman’s chest. “I can’t believe he’s ours.”

“Ours, huh?” Roman says, his voice teasing.

Cody turns in his arms, looking up at him with a smirk. “You got a problem with that?”

Roman’s hands slide down to Cody’s hips, pulling him closer. “Not at all.”

The air between them shifts, the playful energy turning quickly into heat. Cody’s hands find their way to Roman’s chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath his palm. He tilts his head up, his lips brushing against Roman’s in a soft, lingering kiss.

Roman’s grip tightens, his lips moving against Cody’s with a slow, deliberate intensity that makes Cody’s knees weak. He deepens the kiss, his tongue sliding against Cody’s, drawing a quiet moan from him.

“Ro,” Cody breathes against his lips, his hands sliding up to grip Roman’s shoulders.

Roman pulls back slightly, his dark eyes searching Cody’s face. “You okay?”

“More than okay,” Cody says. “You’re just… really good at that.”

Roman smirks, his hands sliding up Cody’s back. “I’ve had practice.”

Cody laughs, pressing his forehead against Roman’s chest. “God, you’re such a dork.”

Roman’s fingers thread through Cody’s hair, tilting his head back so their eyes meet. “But I’m your dork.”

Cody’s breath catches, his heart swelling with love. “Yeah, you are.”

Their lips meet again, the kiss slower this time, more tender. Cody’s hands slide under Roman’s shirt, his fingers tracing the lines of his muscles. Roman’s breath hitches, his hands gripping Cody’s hips as he pulls him closer.

The sound of Pharaoh barking breaks the moment, and they both pull away, laughing softly as they look over at the puppy, who’s chasing his tail in the middle of the room.

“Guess we’re not the only ones who want attention,” Roman says, his voice rough.

Cody grins, stepping back and smoothing down his shirt. “Guess not.”

They spend the rest of the evening playing with Pharaoh, the tension between them simmering just beneath the surface. Every time their hands brush or their eyes meet, Cody feels that electric pull, that undeniable connection that’s only grown stronger since with each passing month.

Later, as they’re lying in bed, with Pharaoh curled up at their feet, Cody turns to Roman, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on his chest. “This is nice,” he says softly.

Roman hums in agreement, his arm tightening around Cody’s shoulders. “It is.”

Cody shifts, propping himself up on his elbow so he can look at Roman. “I mean… us. The dog. All of it. It feels… right.”

Roman’s hand cups Cody’s cheek, his thumb brushing over his skin. “It does.”

They kiss, slow and deep, the heat between them building once more. Roman’s hands slide under Cody’s shirt, his fingers trailing up his spine. Cody shivers, his body responding instantly to Roman’s touch.

“Ro,” Cody murmurs against his lips, his voice filled with desire.

Roman’s lips find his again, his hands tugging at Cody’s shirt, pulling it over his head. Cody’s back hits the mattress, Roman’s weight pressing him down, his lips trailing down his neck. Cody’s hands grip Roman’s shoulders, his head falling back as Roman’s teeth graze his skin.

“You’re so gorgeous, baby boy. Can’t ever get over it,” Roman murmurs, his voice low and rough.

Cody’s breath hitches, his chest rising and falling rapidly. “So are you.”

Roman’s lips capture his again, the kiss deep and desperate, his hands roaming over Cody’s body, igniting every nerve. Cody arches into him, his fingers tangled in Roman’s hair, pulling him closer, needing more.

The sound of Pharaoh barking again breaks the moment, and they both freeze, their breathing heavy, their bodies still pressed together.

“He’s really bad at timing,” Cody says, his voice hoarse.

Roman laughs, resting his forehead against Cody’s. “Yeah, but he’s cute.”

Cody grins, his fingers tracing Roman’s jaw. “We’ll pick this up later?”

Roman kisses him softly, his lips lingering. “Count on it.”

“Love you, Ro,” Cody murmurs. 

Roman squeezes him tighter and breathes deeply. “Love you too, baby. So much.” 

As they lie there, tangled together, with Pharaoh now curled up beside them, Cody feels a sense of peace he hasn’t felt in years. This—Roman, the dog, their life together—it’s everything he’s ever wanted. And he’s not letting it go.

And isn’t it just so pretty to think
All along there was some invisible string
Tying you to me

Chapter Text

January - June, 2015

Roman sits on the edge of the hotel bed, his shoulders slumped, the weight of the crowd’s rejection pressing down on him. The bottle of champagne that Cody insisted upon to celebrate Roman’s impending win remains untouched on the table, the ice in the bucket slowly melting into a lukewarm puddle. He stares at the carpet, the sound of the boos still echoing in his mind, louder than any cheer he’s ever heard. The Big Dog. The top guy. And yet, tonight, it felt like he was nothing but a target.

He’d barely mumbled a half-hearted thanks to Dwayne for coming before he slunk off in shame and embarrassment, only taking enough time to text Cody that he was heading back to the hotel.

Roman isn’t proud of leaving his boyfriend behind, but the rejection of the crowd weighs heavier than anything else he’s experienced in professional wrestling thus far. Sure he’s playing a character and kayfabe is a protective shield, but a big part of the character is based upon Roman himself. Separating the two is harder these days when he’s on a singles run with no faction to lean on.  

The door clicks open, and Roman doesn’t need to look up to know who it is. He feels the bed dip as Cody sits beside him, close but not touching. For a moment, neither of them speaks. The silence is heavy, but not uncomfortable. Cody’s presence alone is enough to remind Roman that he’s not alone, even if it feels that way.

“You won,” Cody finally says, his voice quiet but steady. “You won the Royal Rumble. That’s huge, Ro. Please do not lose sight of that.”

Roman huffs, a bitter laugh escaping him. “Yeah. Huge. Hugely disappointing. The crowd made sure I knew that.”

Cody shifts, turning slightly to face him. His hand hovers over Roman’s back, hesitant, before he finally rests it there. The touch is warm, grounding. “They don’t know you,” he says firmly. “Not like I do.”

Roman turns his head, meeting Cody’s gaze. There’s no pity in those eyes, just understanding and deep love—something Roman has come to rely on deeply in their nearly two years together. “Doesn’t make it any easier,” he mutters. “Hearing that kind of noise… it’s like they’re telling me I don’t belong.”

“You’re wrong,” Cody says, his voice sharp now, cutting through Roman’s self-doubt. “You’re the best damn thing in that ring - the next big thing in wrestling, and you know it. I know it too. You’re so great, Ro. There’s a reason you’ve been picked for this. The crowd? They’ll come around. They always do. They’re fickle. But even if they don’t, it doesn’t matter. You’re Roman Reigns. You’re my Roman Reigns. And you deserve this, baby. You’ve earned it.” 

Roman’s chest tightens at the words, the sincerity in Cody’s voice breaking through the walls he’s tried to put up. He looks away, his jaw clenching. “You don’t have to say that.”

“I’m not just saying it,” Cody insists, his hand sliding up to Roman’s shoulder, his grip firm. “I mean it. You’re not the Big Dog to me. You’re my partner. My person. And I’m so damn proud of you, Roman. I don’t care what anyone else thinks.”

The room feels smaller suddenly, the air between them charged with emotion. He turns fully toward Cody now, their knees brushing. “You really believe that?”

Cody doesn’t hesitate. “With everything in me.”

Roman stares at him, searching for any hint of doubt, but all he finds is unwavering conviction. It would be so easy for Cody to dismiss Roman’s grief. After all, Roman has been anointed as the chosen one while Cody has been reduced to a gimmick mid-carder; one that Roman can tell Cody hates with every fiber of his being. Also one that Roman himself had to throw out of the Rumble. Tension between them would be so easy. 

And yet? Cody never complains. He does as he’s told and does it exceedingly well. All while supporting his boyfriend who is whining about winning the prestigious Royal Rumble. Roman couldn’t feel worse.

Slowly, he reaches up, his hand cupping Cody’s cheek. The touch is tentative, almost reverent, as if he’s afraid Cody might pull away. But Cody doesn’t. Cody never does. He leans into it, his eyes closing for a moment, his breath hitching softly.

Neither of them moves for what feels like an eternity. Roman’s thumb traces the line of Cody’s cheekbone, his touch feather-light. “You’ve always been too good for me,” he murmurs, his voice rough with emotion.

Cody’s eyes flutter open, and there’s a spark of anger in them now, making Roman’s heart race. “Stop that,” Cody commands firmly, his hand covering Roman’s where it rests against his face. “You’re not allowed to talk about yourself like that. Not when I’m here.”

Roman’s lips curve into a small, almost sad smile. “What would I do without you?”

“You’ll never have to find out,” Cody replies, his voice steady. He leans in then, his forehead resting against Roman’s. Their breaths mingle, the space between them charged with a heated tension that’s always present when moving into intimate moments.

Roman’s hand slides from Cody’s cheek to the back of his neck, his fingers tangling in the soft strands of hair there. He hesitates, his heart pounding in his chest. “Cody…”

“I’m here,” Cody whispers, his lips brushing against Roman’s as he speaks. “I’m right here.”

That’s all it takes. Roman closes the distance between them, his lips capturing Cody’s in a kiss that starts soft, almost tentative, but quickly deepens. Cody responds immediately, his hands sliding up Roman’s arms to his shoulders, pulling him closer. The kiss is hungry, desperate, a mix of longing and relief that Roman didn’t even realize he needed. 

Tonight was hard and Roman needs his boyfriend. 

Cody’s lips part under his, and Roman takes the invitation, his tongue brushing against Cody’s in a slow, deliberate motion that sends a shiver down his spine. Cody moans softly, the sound muffled against Roman’s mouth, and it only fuels the fire burning between them.

Roman’s hands move to Cody’s waist, his fingers gripping the fabric of his shirt as he pulls him closer, their bodies pressed together. Cody’s hands slide into Roman’s hair, his fingers tangling in the thick strands, tugging gently. The sensation sends a jolt of electricity through Roman, and he deepens the kiss, his tongue exploring every inch of Cody’s mouth.

Cody breaks the kiss first, his breath coming in short, quick gasps. His forehead rests against Roman’s, his eyes closed, his lips swollen and red. “You’re incredible,” he murmurs, his voice husky. “You know that, right?”

Roman lets out a shaky breath, his hands still gripping Cody’s waist. “Only because I have you next to me.”

Cody’s eyes open, and there’s a glint of something dangerous in them now, something that makes Roman’s pulse quicken. “Don’t sell yourself short,” he says, his voice low. “You’re the one who’s always pushing me to be better. To do more, to follow my dreams.”

Roman can’t help but laugh, the sound rough and quiet. “Look at us. Two messes trying to fix each other.”

“Maybe,” Cody admits, a small smile tugging at his lips. “But I’d rather be a mess with you than anything without you.”

Roman’s chest tightens at the words, the sincerity in Cody’s voice cutting through the last of his defenses. He leans in, capturing Cody’s lips in another kiss, this one softer but no less intense. His hands move to the hem of Cody’s shirt, tugging it upward until Cody gets the hint and pulls it off entirely.

The sight of Cody’s bare chest makes Roman’s breath catch. He runs his hands over the smooth skin, his touch gentle but possessive. Cody shivers under his fingertips, his eyes closing as he leans into the touch.

“You’re beautiful,” Roman murmurs, his voice barely above a whisper. “Every part of you.”

Cody’s eyes flutter open, and there’s a tenderness in them now that makes Roman’s heart ache. He leans in to capture Roman’s lips once more in an all consuming kiss that speaks of the deep love between the two men. 

Come to me now
And lay your hands over me

Roman’s hands tremble as he pulls back from the kiss, his breath uneven, his chest rising and falling like he’s just stepped out of the ring after a grueling match. His heart pounds, not from the crowd’s reaction tonight, but from the way Cody looks at him—like he’s the only thing that matters, like he’s everything. Roman’s vulnerability lingers in the air between them, raw and unguarded, and he swallows hard, his throat tight.

Getting over the utter failure he felt like in that ring isn’t going to be quick or easy. And all of the sudden it comes to him: he knows what will erase this ache. There’s something he’s never asked for before but has often thought about. Now seems like the right time. 

“I need you to take control,” Roman says, his voice low and rough, almost pleading. His eyes lock with Cody’s, searching for understanding, for reassurance. Take care of me, he thinks, though he can’t bring himself to say it out loud. 

Cody’s gaze softens, and he steps closer, his hands coming up to cradle Roman’s face. His thumbs brush over Roman’s cheeks, wiping away the tension that lingers there. “I’ve got you,” Cody murmurs, his voice steady, grounding. “Tell me what you need.”

Roman hesitates, his pride warring with his desire, but Cody’s touch; so gentle, patient, unwavering—breaks through. “I want… I want you to take me,” he admits, the words tumbling out before he can stop them. His cheeks flush, but he doesn’t look away. “I want you to fuck me, Cody.”

Cody’s eyes darken, and a slow, heated smile curves his lips. “Yeah?” he asks, his voice low and husky. He leans in, his breath warm against Roman’s ear. “You want me to make you feel good, baby? The way you always make me feel? To show you how much you mean to me?”

Roman shivers, his cock already hardening at the promise in Cody’s words. “God, yes,” he breathes, his voice barely above a whisper.

Cody’s hands slide down Roman’s body, fingertips skating over the fabric of his shirt, tracing the planes of his chest before settling at the hem. He tugs gently, and Roman lifts his arms, letting Cody pull the shirt over his head. The cool air brushes against his skin, but it’s nothing compared to the heat of Cody’s gaze as it roams over him, taking him in.

“You’re so fucking gorgeous, Ro,” Cody says, his voice thick with desire. He steps forward, his hands coming to rest on Roman’s hips, and Roman’s breath catches as Cody leans in, his lips brushing against Roman’s collarbone.

Roman’s hands grip Cody’s shoulders, his fingers digging into the muscle there as Cody’s mouth moves lower, teeth grazing his skin, tongue soothing the sting. His cock twitches, straining against the confines of his jeans, and he groans, his head falling back. He’s never felt like this before: so out of control, so desperate for another person’s touch. Not just any person though, his person. 

Cody’s hands move to the button of Roman’s jeans, and he flicks it open with practiced ease before sliding the zipper down. The sound of it echoes in the quiet room, and Roman’s heart skips a beat as Cody’s fingers dip beneath the waistband, brushing against his skin.

“Off,” Cody commands, his voice firm but gentle, and Roman obeys, stepping out of his jeans and kicking them aside. Cody’s eyes rake over him, lingering on the bulge in his boxers, and Roman’s cock throbs at the intensity of that gaze.

Cody sinks to his knees in front of Roman, and Roman’s breath hitches, his hands coming to rest on Cody’s shoulders for balance. Cody looks up at him, his eyes dark and hungry, and then he’s hooking his fingers into the waistband of Roman’s boxers, pulling them down.

Roman’s cock springs free, already hard and leaking, and Cody groans, his breath warm against Roman’s skin. “There’s that perfect cock,” he murmurs, his hands sliding up Roman’s thighs, fingers kneading the muscle there.

Roman’s eyes flutter shut as Cody’s mouth closes around him, hot and wet, and he moans, his hips jerking forward instinctively. Cody’s hands tighten on his thighs, holding him still, and Roman trembles, his fingers curling into Cody’s shoulders.

“Cody—” he gasps, his voice rough with need, but Cody just hums around him, the vibrations sending sparks of pleasure shooting up Roman’s spine.

Cody pulls back, lips slick and swollen, and Roman whimpers at the loss. “Not yet,” Cody says, his voice low and teasing, pressing a quick kiss to the base of Roman’s cock. “I want to take my time with you.”

They move toward the bed, Cody gently laying Roman down. The sheets are cool beneath his back, but he barely notices, his focus entirely on Cody as he climbs onto the bed, straddling Roman’s hips.

Cody’s hands slide up Roman’s chest, fingers brushing over his nipples, and Roman arches into the touch, his breath hitching. Cody leans down, his lips brushing against Roman’s ear. “You’re gonna feel so good. I can’t wait to get inside of you,” he promises, his voice a low rumble.

Roman’s cock twitches, and he groans, his hands gripping the sheets. “Please,” he breathes, his voice trembling.

Cody’s lips trail down Roman’s neck, his teeth grazing the skin, and Roman shivers, his hips bucking up against Cody’s weight. Cody’s hands slide down his sides, fingers skimming over his hips, and then he’s pulling Roman’s legs apart, settling between them.

Roman’s heart races as Cody’s fingers brush against his entrance, teasing, and he moans, his body arching off the bed. “Cody—”

“Shh,” Cody murmurs, his voice soothing. “I’ve got you. Let me in, baby.”

Cody’s mouth follows the path of his fingers, his tongue pressing against Roman’s entrance, and Roman’s eyes roll back, his hands fisting in the sheets. Oh, God. He’s never felt anything like this before—the heat of Cody’s tongue, the pressure, the way it makes his entire body tremble with need.

Cody’s tongue presses inside, and Roman moans, his hips jerking up. “Fuck, Cody—”

Cody hums, the vibrations sending shivers through Roman’s body, and his hands grip Roman’s hips, holding him still as he works him open. Roman’s cock throbs, neglected but somehow that only makes it feel better, his entire body focused on the way Cody’s tongue feels inside him.

Wet, warm, euphoric. 

Cody pulls back, and Roman whimpers at the loss, but then Cody’s fingers are replacing his mouth, pressing inside, and Roman’s breath catches. Cody’s fingers curl, finding that spot inside him, and Roman’s back arches, his cock leaking against his stomach.

“Baby boy, please—” Roman gasps, his voice breaking. “I need you.”

Cody’s eyes lock with his, dark and hungry, and he nods, pulling his fingers free. He reaches for the bottle of lube on the nightstand, slicking up his cock, and Roman’s heart races as Cody lines himself up.

“You ready?” Cody asks, his voice rough with desire.

Roman nods, his throat too tight to speak, and Cody pushes inside, slow and steady, and Roman’s breath catches, his body stretching to accommodate him. God, it’s so much—so much more than anything he’s ever felt.

Cody’s hands grip his hips, holding him still as he bottoms out, and Roman’s eyes flutter shut, his body trembling. “You feel so good,” Cody murmurs, his voice thick with need. “So fucking good.”

Roman’s hands reach for Cody, pulling him down, and their lips crash together in a messy, desperate kiss. Cody’s hips move, pulling out and pushing back in, and Roman moans into the kiss, his body already on fire.

“Fuck, baby—” Roman gasps, his hands gripping Cody’s back. “Don’t stop—please, don’t stop.”

Cody’s hips snap forward, burying himself deep inside Roman, and Roman cries out, his nails digging into Cody’s skin. Cody’s lips move to his neck, teeth grazing the skin, and Roman shivers, his entire body vibrating with pleasure.

“Tell me you’re mine,” Cody growls against his skin, his hips moving faster, harder.

Roman’s brain short circuits at this unusual show of possession from his boyfriend, his cock throbbing with every thrust, and he wraps his legs around Cody’s waist, pulling him closer. “Yours,” he gasps, his voice trembling. “Always yours.”

Cody’s lips find his again, the kiss deep and possessive, and Roman loses himself in the feel of it—the way Cody fills him, the way his body moves against his, the way his skin feels beneath his hands. It’s too much and not enough all at once, and Roman’s nails dig into Cody’s back as he pushes himself closer to the edge.

Cody’s hand slips between them, wrapping around Roman’s cock, and Roman moans, his hips bucking up into the touch. “Come for me, Ro,” Cody murmurs, his voice rough and commanding. “Let me see you.”

Roman’s orgasm crashes over him, his back arching off the bed as he spills over Cody’s hand, his entire body trembling with the force of it. Cody’s thrusts falter, his own release hitting him hard, and he buries his face in Roman’s neck, his body shuddering as he spills inside him. For a long moment, they stay like that, Cody’s weight pressing Roman into the mattress, their breaths mingling.

Finally, Cody pulls back, his eyes softening as he brushes a hand through Roman’s sweat-damp hair. “You okay?” he asks, his voice gentle.

Roman nods, his chest still heaving. “More than okay,” he says, his voice rough but sincere. He reaches up, cupping Cody’s face in his hand. “You’re amazing, Cody. I’ve never felt this way—”

Cody silences him with a kiss, his lips soft and lingering. “I know,” he whispers against Roman’s mouth. “Me too.”

Roman’s eyes slip shut, his body sinking into the mattress as Cody moves to lie beside him, pulling Roman into his arms. They lay there in silence, their bodies pressed together, their breathing slowly returning to normal. The world outside the room fades away, leaving just the two of them, wrapped in each other’s arms. Roman feels safe, loved, and whole.

“Are you okay?” Cody asks softly, his voice filled with concern.

Roman nods, his lips curving into a small smile. “Yeah, I’m good. I promise.”

Cody nods, his fingers tracing patterns on Roman’s skin, his touch soothing. “Good. I’m glad.”

Roman closes his eyes, his body relaxing into Cody’s embrace. The events of the Royal Rumble, the boos from the crowd, the pressure of being a WWE superstar— all of it fades away, leaving just the two of them, wrapped in each other’s arms. And for the first time in a long time, Roman feels like he’s exactly where he’s supposed to be.

I’m broken in two
And I know you’re on to me 

It’s a beautiful Tuesday morning in Orlando at their shared home. Roman leans back on the couch, one arm draped casually over the back, his black tank top clinging to his chest as he scrolls through his phone. Cody sits beside him, his muscular frame relaxed, a half-eaten sandwich in hand as he flips through channels on the TV. Pharaoh dozes at their feet, his piercing blue eyes occasionally flicking open to check on his pack members.

Today is a rare day off: no press, no travel, no obligations—and the two men are savoring the quiet intimacy of. They’ve lived together for just under a year and Roman can count on one hand the number of times this has occurred. He glances at Cody, his profile softened by the ease of the moment. He’s been so tense lately, Roman thinks. Always on edge about his dad or his career. Stardust. He shifts slightly, his knee brushing against Cody’s, a subtle gesture of closeness that makes Cody glance over with a small smile.

“What?” Cody asks, his voice low and warm.

“Nothing,” Roman says, smirking. “Just wondering if you’re ever gonna finish that sandwich or if I should just take it from you.”

Cody laughs, a deep, rumbling sound that Roman feels more than hears. “Keep your hands off my food, Reigns. You’ve got your own.”

“Yeah, but yours looks better,” Roman teases, leaning in as if to grab the sandwich. Cody holds it out of reach, his eyes sparkling with playful challenge. Their shoulders bump, and for a moment, they’re just two idiots in love fooling around, the weight of the world far away.

But then Cody’s phone buzzes on the coffee table, the vibration loud in the quiet room. 

“It’s my mom,” Cody says, his voice tight. He freezes, the levity draining from his face as he reaches for it. Roman watches him, his own smile fading as he sees the shift in Cody’s expression. He answers the call, his grip on the phone white-knuckled. “Mom? What’s wrong?”

Roman can’t hear the other end of the conversation, but he doesn’t need to. The way Cody’s face goes pale, the way his shoulders tense is enough to make Roman’s chest tighten. Dusty.

“We’ll be there,” Cody says quickly, already standing. “Just—just hold on. We’re coming.”

He hangs up and turns to Roman, his eyes wide with panic. “It’s my dad. He fell, he’s not doing… great. They’re taking him to the hospital.”

Roman is on his feet instantly, grabbing his keys from the counter. “Let’s go.”

The drive to the hospital is quiet, the tension in the car thick enough to suffocate. Cody stares out the window, his jaw clenched, while Roman keeps his hands steady on the wheel. He wants to say something—anything—to ease Cody’s fear, but he knows there are no words that can make this better. So he drives, his focus unwavering, his presence a silent promise that Cody isn’t alone.

When they arrive, Cody practically bolts from the car, Roman quick on his heels. They find Michelle in the waiting room, her figure stiff with worry. All of Cody’s siblings are there too, their faces drawn and anxious.

“Mom,” Cody says, his voice rough as he pulls her into a hug. “How is he?”

Michelle shakes her head, her eyes damp. “They’re with him now. They—they don’t know. It’s not the fall, Cody. His kidneys have gotten worse, he’s so weak, and they’re not sure…” she choked on her words and bows her head to compose herself.

Roman steps forward, his presence a grounding force. “Anything we can do?”

Michelle looks at him, her tired smile grateful. “Just being here is enough, Roman. Thank you.”

Dustin and their sisters take turns going in to see Dusty, each of them coming back with tears in their eyes. When it’s Cody’s turn, he hesitates, his hand trembling as he reaches for the door. Roman places a hand on his shoulder, his touch firm and reassuring.

“I’m right here,” Roman says quietly. “Take your time.”

Cody nods, swallowing hard before he steps into the room. Roman watches him go, his own heart aching for the man he loves. He turns to Michelle, who’s sitting on one of the plastic chairs, her hands clasped tightly in her lap.

“He’s lucky to have you,” Michelle says softly, her gaze fixed on the floor. “I don’t think Cody’s ever had someone who understands him the way you do.”

Roman sits beside her, his voice gentle. “He’s everything, Michelle. I’d do anything for him.”

She looks at him then, her eyes searching his face. “I know you would. And that’s why I’m not worried. Because as much as this hurts, he’s not alone. And neither are we.”

Roman reaches out, covering her hands with his. “You’re family to me too, you know that, right?”

Michelle smiles, a real one this time, though it’s tinged with sadness. “I do. So does Dusty. He loves you like one of his own, Roman.”

Roman ducks his head and fights the tears angling to get out. This isn’t about him. As much as he has loved and admired Dusty from the minute he stepped into NXT, the legendary wrestler is more than that. He’s a father and a husband with people who love him dearly. Roman’s not sure if he deserves to feel this sadness when his partner is about to go through a devastating loss. If not today, it’s clear that the time is imminently upon them. 

When Cody finally emerges from the room, his face is ashen, his eyes red. Roman is on his feet instantly, crossing the room in a few strides. He doesn’t say anything—there’s nothing to say. Instead, he pulls Cody into his arms, holding him tightly as Cody’s body shakes with silent sobs.

Michelle watches them, her heart breaking for her son but also filled with a quiet gratitude. Because no matter what happens, Cody has someone who will stand by him. Someone who will hold him up when he can’t stand on his own.

The hours drag on, the night stretching into the early hours of the morning. They all stay, unwilling to leave, their presence a silent vigil. And when the doctor comes out just after dawn, his expression grim, they know before he even says the words.

Dusty is gone.

Cody collapses against Roman, his grief a tangible force that threatens to consume him. Roman holds him, his own tears falling silently as he whispers words of comfort, his voice steady even as his heart shatters.

“I’ve got you,” Roman murmurs, his lips brushing against Cody’s temple. “Always.”

No one heals me like you
And you hold the key

In the middle of funeral preparations, they’re notified of the Monday Night Raw tribute to Dusty. Cody is obviously off the hook, but Roman is required to be there. He really doesn’t want to leave Cody’s side for one second, but Cody is busy helping his mom plan the final arrangements and Cody promises Roman that for the one night he’s away that he will stay at Michelle’s house. 

Roman does his best not to crumble under his own crushing grief during the ten bell salute. 

Roman is genuinely impressed with how well Cody holds up. He’s always there for his mom, checking in on all three of his siblings and the grandkids, stretching himself thin with ensuring everyone else is okay. At first Roman is worried. He’s desperately looking after Cody while Cody looks after everyone else. But then he realizes that’s how he has decided to cope, and in comparison to other methods, well… this seems relatively healthy.

When the day of the funeral comes, Cody gives the eulogy and it’s beautiful. Roman expected nothing less. During the service and dinner afterward, Cody is fully on. He’s taking the condolences from family and friends in stride, catching up with loved ones that he hasn’t seen in years, and willingly talking wrestling with anyone who asks.

But then the funeral is over, Dusty is laid to rest, and Cody has to go back to whatever normal is now that his father is no longer on this Earth. Roman watches it happen in what feels like slow motion. 

After the funeral Cody sleeps for nearly two days, his grief a heavy blanket that keeps him tethered to the bed. Roman hovers in the background, unsure how to help but unwilling to leave. He brings water, sets plates of food on the nightstand that go untouched, and occasionally sits on the edge of the bed, brushing his fingers through Cody’s hair or resting a hand on his back. The silence is heavy, broken only by the occasional shift of the mattress or the soft sigh of Cody’s breathing.

On the third morning, Roman decides enough is enough of worrying, he’s going to stay next to Cody for as long as he needs. He’s halfway to the bedroom, determined to wake Cody gently but firmly, when the door creaks open. Cody stands there, his face pale, his eyes shadowed, but there’s a look in his expression that makes Roman pause. It’s not just grief—it’s longing. A quiet, aching need that Roman feels mirrored in his own chest.

“Cody,” Roman starts, his voice low, but Cody steps forward, cutting him off with a shake of his head. He reaches for Roman’s hand, his fingers cold but firm, and tugs him toward the bedroom. Roman follows without protest, his heart beating faster with every step.

The room is dim, the curtains drawn, but the faint light filtering through casts a soft glow over the bed. Cody sits on the edge, his back straight, and looks up at Roman. His eyes are searching, pleading in a way that makes Roman’s throat tighten. Without a word, Cody pulls him closer, until Roman is standing between his knees.

“I need you,” Cody whispers, his voice raw. “I need you to take care of me. Make me feel… make me forget,” his voice cracks, but his eyes are steady. 

Roman’s breath catches, never able to deny his lover, his hands instinctively moving to Cody’s hips. He looks up at him, searching for any sign of hesitation, but there’s none. 

Cody leans down, his lips brushing against Roman’s in a kiss that’s tender at first, almost tentative. But as their mouths move together, the kiss deepens, becoming something more urgent. Roman’s hands slide up Cody’s back, pulling him closer, and Cody lets out a soft sigh, his body melting against Roman’s.

They break apart just long enough for Cody to straddle Roman’s lap, his legs bracketing Roman’s thighs. His hands move to the hem of Roman’s shirt, tugging it upward, and Roman lifts his arms, letting Cody pull it off. Cody’s fingers trace the lines of Roman’s chest, his touch feather-light but electric. Roman’s skin tingles under his fingertips, and he lets out a low groan, his hands gripping Cody’s waist.

Cody’s mouth finds Roman’s again, and this time the kiss is hungrier, more desperate. Roman responds in kind, his tongue sliding against Cody’s, their breaths mingling. Cody’s hands move to the waistband of Roman's gym shorts. Roman helps him, pushing the shorts down his hips, and Cody shifts slightly, allowing Roman to kick them off.

Cody pulls back, his eyes dark with desire, and Roman can see the faint flush spreading across his cheeks. He reaches for the hem of Cody’s shirt, pulling it over his head, and lets it fall to the floor. Cody’s chest rises and falls with each breath, his skin warm under Roman’s hands. Roman’s fingers trace the curves of his muscles, moving down to the waistband of Cody’s sweatpants.

Cody lifts his hips, letting Roman slide the sweatpants down, and they join the growing pile of clothes on the floor. Roman’s hands roam over Cody’s bare skin, his touch gentle but insistent. Cody’s breath hitches as Roman’s fingers brush over his hipbones, and he leans in, pressing a series of kisses along Cody’s collarbone.

“Lie down,” Roman murmurs, his voice low and husky.

Cody nods, shifting off Roman’s lap and lying back on the bed. Roman moves with him, his hands sliding down Cody’s thighs, spreading them apart. He kneels between Cody’s legs, his gaze locked on Cody’s face as his hands move to Cody’s hips, lifting them slightly. Cody’s breath quickens, his eyes fluttering shut as Roman’s mouth finds the sensitive skin just below his navel.

Roman’s lips trail lower, his tongue flicking out to taste Cody’s skin. Cody’s fingers tangle in the sheets, his hips arching slightly as Roman’s mouth moves closer to his cock. But Roman doesn’t stop there. He shifts lower, his hands spreading Cody’s cheeks, and Cody lets out a gasp as Roman’s tongue swipes over his entrance.

Roman’s hands tighten on Cody’s hips, holding him in place as he licks and teases, his tongue working in slow, deliberate circles. Cody’s breath comes in short, shallow gasps, his body trembling under Roman’s touch. Roman’s hands move to Cody’s thighs, pushing them further apart, and he presses his tongue inside, tasting him.

Cody’s back arches, a moan escaping his lips as Roman’s tongue delves deeper. Roman’s hands move to Cody’s cock, stroking him in time with the movements of his tongue. Cody’s hips buck, his breath coming in ragged pants, and Roman can feel the tension building in his body.

When Roman finally pulls back, Cody is panting, his chest heaving. Roman reaches for the lube on the nightstand, squeezing a generous amount onto his fingers. He leans over Cody, his lips brushing against his as he whispers, “Relax. Let me make this good for you, baby boy.”

Cody nods, his eyes heavy-lidded with desire, and Roman’s fingers press against his entrance. He works one finger inside, then another, stretching him carefully. Cody’s breath hitches, his body tensing for a moment before relaxing into the sensation. Roman moves his fingers slowly, working him open, and Cody’s hips shift, seeking more.

“Ro,” Cody whispers, his voice rough with need. “Please.”

Roman’s lips curve into a small smile as he pulls his fingers out. He slicks himself up, his cock hard and aching, and positions himself between Cody’s legs. He leans down, capturing Cody’s lips in a deep, lingering kiss as he presses the tip of his cock against Cody’s entrance.

Cody’s hands grip Roman’s shoulders, his breath hitching as Roman pushes inside. Roman moves slowly, giving Cody time to adjust, his lips moving to Cody’s neck. Cody’s head falls back, a moan escaping his lips as Roman bottoms out, his hips pressed flush against Cody’s.

Roman pulls back slightly, then thrusts back in, setting a slow, steady rhythm. Cody’s hands move to Roman’s back, his nails digging into his skin as Roman’s hips move against his. Roman’s breath quickens, his movements becoming more urgent as he feels Cody’s body tighten around him.

Cody’s hips lift, meeting Roman’s thrusts, and Roman lets out a low groan, his hands gripping Cody’s hips. Their bodies move together, the rhythm unbroken, and Roman can feel the heat building between them. Cody’s breath is coming in ragged pants now, his eyes locked on Roman’s, and Roman can see the pleasure etched across his face.

Roman sits up, pulling Cody with him, and Cody straddles his lap, his arms wrapping around Roman’s shoulders, legs locking around the larger man’s waist. Roman’s hands move to Cody’s hips, guiding him as he lowers himself onto Roman’s cock. Cody’s breath hitches, his eyes fluttering shut as he takes Roman deep inside him.

Roman’s hands move to Cody’s back, pulling him closer, and Cody’s head falls onto his shoulder, his breath warm against Roman’s skin. Roman’s hips move, driving his cock deeper inside Cody, and Cody’s body trembles with each thrust.

“Ro,” Cody whispers, his voice thick with emotion. “I love you.”

Roman’s hands tighten on Cody’s hips, his movements becoming more urgent. Cody’s breath is coming in short, shallow gasps now, his body trembling as he clings to Roman. Roman can feel the tension building in his own body, his release just moments away.

With a few more thrusts, Roman feels Cody’s body tighten around him, and he lets out a low groan, his release spilling inside him. Cody’s body trembles, his own release following moments later, and he collapses against Roman, his breath ragged.

They stay like that for a long moment, their bodies still joined, their breaths slowly returning to normal. Roman’s hands move to Cody’s back, soothing him as he presses a kiss to the top of his head.

“I’ve got you,” Roman murmurs, his voice soft but steady. “Always.”

Cody nods, his grip on Roman tightening slightly. “I know you do,” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion. “Thank you.”

Their bodies are still entwined, the warmth of their connection lingering between them. Roman’s hands continue to move over Cody’s back, soothing him, as Cody’s breath gradually evens out. The room is quiet, save for the soft sounds of their breathing, and Roman feels a sense of peace settle over them, even in the midst of their grief.

“Roman,” Cody whispers, his voice barely audible. “Don’t let go.”

“Never, baby boy,” Roman promises passionately. “No matter what, you’ve always got me.” 

Roman has never meant anything more in his life.

Even if it’s a lie
Say it will be alright
And I shall believe 

Chapter Text

May - October, 2016

Cody steps through the front door of their house, his gym bag slung over his shoulder. The faint scent of Roman’s cologne lingers in the air, a familiar comfort that wraps around him like a warm embrace. He drops his bag by the door and takes a deep breath, the weight of his decision pressing heavily on his chest. He’s been rehearsing this conversation in his head all day, but now that he’s here, the words feel like they’re stuck in his throat.

Roman’s in the kitchen, his broad back to Cody as he stirs something on the stove. It’s an especially warm day so the shirt he’s wearing clings to his muscles, and Cody can’t help but linger on the way the fabric stretches across his shoulders. Roman turns, his expression softening as his eyes meet Cody’s. A small smile plays on his lips.

“Hey, you,” Roman says, his voice warm and inviting. “Dinner’s almost ready. You hungry?”

Cody nods, though his stomach is too tied up in knots to even think about eating. He walks over to the counter, leaning against it as he watches Roman move around the kitchen with practiced ease. How is he always so calm? Cody wonders, his fingers tapping nervously against the granite countertop.

“Something on your mind?” Roman asks, his gaze flickering to Cody’s restless hands. He sets the spoon down and leans back against the counter, crossing his arms over his chest. His focus is entirely on Cody now, and it makes his chest tighten.

Cody looks down at his hands, his heart pounding. Just say it. “I… I need to tell you something,” he says, his voice barely above a whisper. He lifts his eyes to meet Roman’s, and almost loses the courage staring into those brown pools he loves so much.

Roman’s expression softens, concern flickering in his dark eyes. He steps closer, his hand reaching out to gently brush against Cody’s arm. “Hey, whatever it is, you can tell me,” he says, his voice steady and gentle.

Cody takes a deep breath, his chest rising and falling as he gathers his thoughts. “I’ve decided to leave the WWE,” he says, the words tumbling out in a rush. He watches Roman’s face carefully, searching for any sign of what he’s thinking.

Roman doesn’t react immediately, his expression unreadable. For a moment, the silence between them feels heavy, suffocating. Then, slowly, Roman nods, his hand still resting on Cody’s arm. “Wow. Okay,” he says, his voice calm, with a tinge of sadness. “Tell me why.”

Cody exhales, relieved that Roman isn’t immediately shutting him down. Somehow this makes him even more emotional. “I can’t do it anymore,” he says, his voice breaking. “Stardust…it’s killing me. I feel like I’m losing myself. I’ve asked, begged, pleaded time and again to let me go back to being me. And the company… they don’t believe in me. Not the way they used to. Or the way they should.”

Roman steps closer, empathy etched into his features and his hand reaching for Cody’s. “Baby…”

Cody swallows thickly and clutches Roman’s hand. “I need to do this,” he says, his voice firmer now. “I need to wrestle somewhere else, anywhere else so that I can be me. I can’t keep pretending to be something I’m not. I’m getting worse, not better”

Roman’s eyes soften, and he steps closer, his hand moving to cup Cody’s cheek. “I get it,” he says, his thumb brushing gently over Cody’s skin. “You’re the best wrestler I know and you should be on top. You’re made for the spotlight, baby boy. You need to do what’s best for you.”

Cody’s heart swells with gratitude, and he leans into Roman’s touch. “I was worried you’d be upset,” he admits, his voice barely audible.

Roman shakes his head, a small, sad smile tugging at his lips. “I’m not upset with you or this decision,” he says. “I’m proud of you for making this decision. It’s not easy to walk away from something like this. But I am… sad. It feels like the end of something.”

Tears prick at the corners of Cody’s eyes, and he blinks them away, his throat tight. “I don’t want this to change anything between us,” he says passionately.

Roman’s hand moves to the back of Cody’s neck, his fingers tangling in his hair. “I don’t either,” he says, his voice firm. “You’re still my Cody. That’s never going to change. Not being at the same company isn’t going to define our relationship.”

Cody’s breath hitches, and he steps closer, his hands resting on Roman’s chest. “I love you,” he says, his voice trembling with emotion.

Roman’s eyes soften, and he leans in, his lips brushing against Cody’s in a tender kiss. “I love you too,” he murmurs against his lips. 

The kiss deepens, slow and lingering, and Cody’s hands slide up to Roman’s shoulders, pulling him closer. Roman’s arms wrap around his waist, holding him tight as they lose themselves in the moment. 

When they finally pull apart, Cody’s heart is racing, his chest rising and falling with each breath. Roman’s eyes are cloudy with emotion, and he brushes a knuckle down the side of Cody’s face, his fingers lingering on his skin.

“We’ll figure this out together,” Roman says, his voice steady. “No matter where you go, even if I’m not physically there I’m always with you.”

Cody nods, his heart swelling with love and gratitude. “Thank you, Ro,” he says, his voice barely audible.

Roman smiles, his hand moving to cup Cody’s cheek. “You’re welcome, baby boy,” he says, his thumb brushing gently over his skin.

They stand there for a moment, their foreheads pressed together, the weight of the world lifting off Cody’s shoulders. He knows this won’t be easy, but with Roman by his side, he feels like he can face anything.

Roman pulls back slightly, his hand moving to Cody’s back. “Come on,” he says, his voice soft. “Let’s eat. We can talk more and figure out next steps.”

Cody nods, his heart lighter than it’s been in weeks. As they sit down at the table, the tension between them slowly fades, replaced by a quiet, steady warmth. 

After several minutes of chewing their pasta in comfortable silence, Roman finally speaks up. “We’ve definitely talked about your distaste for Stardust but I have to ask… how long have you known you wanted to leave?”

Cody finishes the bite in his mouth and sets his fork down. “There wasn’t just one moment that I can pinpoint to say ‘that’s when I knew’. But it’s all these small moments. No advance warning that this was the character I would be forced into, just one day - here you go, sink or swim. You don’t get to be you anymore. Constantly losing, taking the pin, not ever getting title shots anymore. And then when dad died,” he stops, emotion bubbling in his throat. “It just really made me think more about what I want.” 

Roman nods understandingly. “I know it’s been hard for you, Cody. I’ve watched this gimmick slowly burn you out.” 

 “I tried, I gave it my all Ro, I swear I did,” Cody promises passionately.

Roman slides his hand across the table and places it atop Cody’s. “Baby you don’t have to convince me of that. I’ve been with you every step of the way, I see how much you’ve tried to make this work and I’ve never doubted your commitment. I just want you to be happy.”

Cody’s eyes sparkle with tears again. He’s in awe of this man he’s chosen to share his life with. 

“Thank you, Ro,” Cody whispers. 

They sit in comfortable silence together until Cody clears his throat again. “You know what really helped me make the decision? The Pipe Bomb.”

Roman’s brow furrows. “CM Punk? A promo from five years ago?”

Cody nods emphatically. “At the time I wondered how anyone could make statements against the biggest promotion in the world. But now?” He scoffs. “Now I get it. Roman, he gave the exact formula, the blueprint, for a revolution. How to change the game and make yourself a standout in spite of the corporate machine that is World Wrestling Entertainment.” 

“The Pipe Bomb is so iconic and controversial because he wasn’t wrong. Well not completely wrong,” Roman states.

“He wasn’t,” Cody agrees. “But when you’re so caught up day-to-day and frankly, when you’re successful here,” he pauses. “It’s the best feeling. It’s not until you get knocked down a peg or five that you realize it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be.” 

The empathy is clear on Roman’s face. And while he knows his boyfriend can’t really relate because he’s been successful since the moment The Shield debuted at Survivor Series—crowd reactions lately notwithstanding—Cody appreciates that Roman is trying to understand his perspective. So Cody clears his throat and hits on what really has him excited, instead of the sadness of his decision. 

“I also had a really good talk with Kevin Owens,” Cody admits. 

Roman’s eyes are curious. “How did that go?” 

“Amazing,” Cody can’t hide the excitement in his voice now. “He told me what it’s like to work in the indies. Was very clear it’s night and day from here, but that the hard work can be worth it if you dedicate yourself to the grind and market yourself. He also gave me a list of promotion contacts and then names of wrestlers that would welcome me into that world, but also give me a hell of a fight in the ring.”

Roman has a sad smile on his face, but he cups Cody's jaw lovingly. “I’m proud of you, Cody. You’ve thought this out and have a plan. And I support you all the way.” 

Cody smiles and leans into the familiar touch. They continue to talk about the future, about what Cody’s next steps look like with the advice received from Kevin, and Roman listens intently, his support unwavering.

By the time they’re finished eating, the sun has set, and the house is bathed in a soft, golden glow. Roman whistles for Pharaoh who comes trotting in happily. He walks over to where they keep Pharaoh’s leash and snaps it on to his collar before turning and holding out his hand to Cody. “Come on,” he says, his voice gentle. “Let’s go for a walk.”

Cody takes his hand, his heart swelling with love as they step outside into the warm Florida night and watch . The air is thick with the scent of blooming flowers, and the sound of crickets fills the silence as they walk down the quiet street.

They don’t talk much, but they don’t need to, simply enjoying the evening with their beloved canine. The silence between them is comfortable, filled with the unspoken promise that whatever comes next, they’ll face it together.

As they reach the dog park at the end of their street, Roman stops, turning to face Cody. “No matter what happens next,” he says, his voice steady, “I’m here for you. Always.”

Cody’s brain catches on the wording, but his heart swells, and he steps closer, his hands resting on Roman’s chest. “I know,” he says, his voice trembling with emotion. “And I’m here for you too.”

As they unleash Pharaoh, encouraging him to sniff and run around the enclosed dog park, they allow themselves a quick moment of affection after ensuring no one else is around. Roman’s arms wrap around his waist, holding him close as they stand there against the setting sun, the weight of the future looming ahead of them.

A drop in the ocean
A change in the weather  

Later that night after the house is locked up, steam fills the bathroom, clouding the mirror and wrapping around Cody like a warm embrace. He steps inside, his heart pounding as he takes in the sight of Roman under the spray of the shower. Water cascades over his broad shoulders, the muscles of his back flexing as he runs a hand through his dark hair. Cody’s breath catches, but he doesn’t hesitate. He needs this. Needs him.

Roman turns, his sharp gaze softening as he sees Cody standing there. “You okay, baby boy?” he asks, his voice low and warm, echoing slightly in the tiled room.

Cody nods, stepping closer until the water hits him too, soaking his skin. “I just… needed to be close to you,” he admits, his voice barely above a whisper. He reaches out, his fingers brushing Roman’s chest, tracing the water droplets that cling to his skin. The heat of Roman’s body is intoxicating, and Cody feels a shiver run through him, though it’s not from the cold.

Roman doesn’t say anything. He just cups Cody’s face, his thumb brushing over his cheek. His eyes are dark, filled with desire that makes Cody’s stomach twist with anticipation. 

Slowly, Roman leans in, his lips brushing against Cody’s in a kiss that’s soft, almost tentative. It’s tender, but there’s an undercurrent of heat that makes Cody’s knees weak. He presses into it, his hands sliding up Roman’s chest to grip his shoulders, pulling him closer. The water continues to pour over them, but Cody barely notices. All he can focus on is the warmth of Roman’s mouth, the way his tongue slides against his own, the way his body feels pressed against him.

Roman breaks the kiss, his breath coming in short, ragged bursts. “You’re full of surprises tonight,” he murmurs, his hands sliding down to grip Cody’s hips.

Cody smirks, his fingers tracing the lines of Roman’s chest. “Thought you might like this one,” he says, his voice husky with desire.

Roman’s response is a growl, his lips crashing back onto Cody’s. This time, the kiss is harder, more urgent. Cody moans into Roman’s mouth, his hands roaming over Roman’s body, feeling every ridge and curve of muscle. Roman’s hands are just as eager, exploring Cody’s skin with a hunger that makes Cody’s knees weak.

Roman deepens the kiss, his tongue sliding against Cody’s, and Cody moans softly into his mouth. His hands move lower, tracing the lines of Roman’s abs before wrapping around his cock. Roman groans, his hips jerking forward into Cody’s grip, and Cody strokes him slowly, savoring the way Roman’s breath hitches.

“Fuck, baby boy,” Roman murmurs against his lips, his voice thick with arousal. “You’re so good to me.”

Cody’s own cock is hard and aching, pressed between their bodies, and he grinds against Roman, seeking friction. Roman’s hands slide down to grip his ass, pulling him closer, and Cody gasps at the intensity of it. Their kisses grow more urgent, more desperate, and Cody feels like he’s on fire.

Roman breaks the kiss, his lips trailing down Cody’s neck, and Cody tilts his head back, giving him access. Roman’s teeth graze his skin, sending a jolt of pleasure through him, and Cody’s fingers tighten on Roman’s shoulders. “Ro,” he breathes, his voice trembling. “I need you.”

Roman lifts him effortlessly, Cody’s legs wrapping around his waist, and Cody feels the cool glass of the shower wall against his back. Roman’s cock presses against him, hot and hard, and Cody whimpers at the sensation. 

Racketing his temperature up several notches, Roman slips two fingers into Cody’s mouth. “Get ‘em wet, baby boy.” 

Again Cody whimpers, enthusiastically doing exactly what Roman is asking. He knows this only means pleasure for him.

Once Roman is seemingly satisfied, his eyes molten with need, he slips the fingers between Cody’s cheeks, teasingly circling the puckered ring before slipping inside. Wasting no time, Roman aims straight for Cody’s prostate, watching as his boyfriend throws his head back against the glass. 

“Fuck, Ro,” Cody pants. 

“You like that?” Roman asks, leaning down to nip at Cody’s neck. Roman works him open slowly, but intently, adding a third finger when Cody’s ready.

“Yes,” he whimpers. “But I want more, Ro. Need your dick. Right now.” 

Roman kisses him again, slow and deep, as he positions himself. “Then take it baby boy,” Roman demands, his voice rough.

He pushes inside Cody slowly, inch by inch, and Cody gasps at the stretch, the fullness. Roman’s hands grip his hips, holding him steady, and Cody clings to him, his nails digging into Roman’s shoulders. When Roman is fully sheathed inside him, they both pause, breathing heavily, their foreheads pressed together.

“You feel so good,” Roman murmurs, his voice barely above a whisper. “So fucking perfect.”

Cody moans as Roman begins to move, slow and deliberate, each thrust sending waves of pleasure through him. The water runs over them, mixing with the sweat on their skin, and Cody feels like he’s floating. Roman’s lips find his again, their kisses messy and desperate, and Cody loses himself in the rhythm of their bodies.

“I love you,” Cody whispers, his voice breaking.

Roman’s eyes soften for a moment before they darken again with desire. “I love you too,” he murmurs, his thrusts becoming more erratic.

Roman’s thrusts grow faster, harder, and Cody cries out, his cock rubbing against Roman’s stomach with every movement. He feels the tension building inside him, coiling tighter and tighter, and he knows he’s close. Roman’s hand slides between them, wrapping around Cody’s cock, and Cody’s vision whites out as he comes, his body shuddering with pleasure.

Roman follows him over the edge, his hips stuttering as he spills inside Cody. They cling to each other, their breaths ragged, the water still pouring down around them. Roman rests his forehead against Cody’s, his eyes closed, and Cody feels a surge of emotion so strong it nearly takes his breath away.

They stay like that for a moment, clinging to each other as their breathing slows. The water continues to pour down around them, washing away the evidence of their passion.

Roman finally pulls out gently, lowering Cody back to his feet. Cody sags against him, his legs still shaky. Roman wraps his arms around him, holding him close.

“You okay?” Roman asks softly, his lips brushing against Cody’s temple.

Cody nods, a small smile tugging at his lips. “More than okay,” he murmurs.

Roman chuckles, the sound warm and comforting. “Good,” he says. “Because I’m not done with you yet.”

Cody looks up at him, his heart skipping a beat at the look in Roman’s eyes. “Oh yeah?” he asks, his voice teasing.

Roman smirks, his hands sliding down to Cody’s hips again. “Yeah,” he says, voice teasing. “We’ve got all night.” 

I was praying that you and me might end up together

Cody sits on the edge of his bed in the short-term rental apartment in New Jersey, staring at his phone. The screen lights up with a text from Roman, a simple “Goodnight, baby boy” followed by a heart emoji. He types out a loving response. Afterward he throws down the phone and sighs heavily. 

The indie wrestling scene has been good to him for the past several months; better than he ever imagined. He’s building a name for himself without the WWE, proving he can stand on his own. But every victory feels just a little hollow without Roman there to share it. 

It’s been weeks since they’ve seen each other in person, which is becoming a fairly regular occurrence as Cody’s bookings gain speed. The distance is starting to feel like an anvil pressing down on his chest.

While most of Cody’s independent shows are on weekends, he is traveling across the country and sometimes across the world to get to these events. Most of his training also happens on the east coast, leaving little time to get home to Florida. Roman is typically gone Thursday through Tuesday for weekend house shows, Raw, and traveling in between. And as Roman’s star continues to rise as the Big Dog—albeit against the fan’s wishes—his media and event schedule has become heavier. So when Cody is able to get back to Orlando, Roman is rarely ever there at the same time. 

Being on opposite schedules has severely messed with their rhythm. 

They text every day, but calls and FaceTime sessions have waned drastically. Their connection has faltered and it is a stark difference in their relationship dynamic. Cody misses the way Roman’s laughter fills a room, the way his presence makes everything feel brighter. He misses the warmth of his body, the way their hands fit together like they were made for each other.

The cancellation of this weekend’s bookings should have been a relief: a rare free weekend to rest and recharge. He had considered going home to be with Roman, but he knew it would be impossible for Roman to get out of the house show circuit while holding the United States Championship.

And honestly? Being at the home they bought together without Roman seemed even more miserable. He spends so little time there these days anyway. 

So instead, he chose to stay put in Jersey and it just leaves him feeling empty. He’s alone in this unfamiliar city, in this apartment that doesn’t feel like home. He grabs the remote and flips through channels, but nothing holds his attention. His mind keeps drifting back to Roman, to the last time they were together. It was nearly a month ago; Cody had managed to get home for two days in the middle of the week and he and Roman barely left the bed during those 48 hours. 

He shakes his head, trying to push the thoughts away. Tonight isn’t about that. Tonight is about… what? Sitting here, feeling sorry for himself?

He stands up abruptly, pacing the room. Maybe he should take Pharaoh for a run, clear his head. Or call Roman again, even though they just talked an hour ago. He’s about to grab his shoes and the leash when there’s a knock at the door. He freezes, his heart skipping a beat. It’s late—who could that be? He hesitates for a moment before walking to the door and peering through the peephole.

His breath catches in his throat.

Roman stands on the porch, a duffel bag slung over one shoulder. His hair is down and slightly messy, like he’s been running his hands through it, and there’s a gentle smile playing on his lips. Cody’s heart races as he yanks the door open, staring at him in disbelief. The sight in front of him is like encountering water after days in the desert. 

“Ro?” he says, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Hey, baby boy,” Roman replies, his deep voice sending a shiver down Cody’s spine. “Surprise.”

Cody doesn’t know what to say. He just stands there, staring at him, trying to process what’s happening. Roman steps inside, dropping his bag by the door and closing it behind him. He reaches out almost hesitantly, but brushing his hand against Cody’s arm, and that simple touch is enough to make Cody’s knees weak.

“What are you doing here?” Cody finally manages to ask. “You were scheduled to be on each of the house shows this weekend.”

Roman shrugs, his smirk widening. “I was. But I cashed in a favor, rearranged some things… maybe claimed illness. I couldn’t stay away any longer.”

Cody’s chest tightens, emotions swirling inside him—joy, relief, longing. He steps closer, his eyes searching Roman’s face. “You didn’t have to do that. I know what the consequences are.” 

“Yeah, I did,” Roman says softly, his gaze locking with Cody’s. “I missed you. Fuck whatever else comes my way.”

Those words break something inside Cody. He closes the distance between them in an instant, wrapping his arms around Roman and pulling him into a tight embrace. Roman’s arms come around him just as quickly, holding him like he never wants to let go. Cody buries his face in Roman’s shoulder, breathing in the familiar scent of his cologne mixed with the faint hint of sweat from travel. It’s intoxicating.

“I missed you too,” Cody murmurs, his voice muffled against Roman’s shirt. “So much.”

They stay like that for a long moment, just holding each other, letting the weight of their separation melt away. When Cody finally pulls back, he looks up at Roman, his eyes shining with unshed tears. Roman cups his face with one hand, his thumb brushing against Cody’s cheek.

“You okay?” Roman asks, his voice gentle.

Cody nods, swallowing hard. “Yeah. I just… I didn’t realize how much I needed this. Needed you.”

Roman smiles, that soft, genuine smile that always makes Cody’s heart skip a beat. “Me too.”

Their faces are close now, so close that Cody can feel Roman’s breath on his skin. He leans in slowly, their lips brushing together in a kiss that starts tenderly, like they’re rediscovering each other after so long apart. But then Roman’s hand slides into Cody’s hair, pulling him closer, and the kiss deepens. Cody’s hands grip Roman’s waist, holding on like he’s afraid he might disappear if he lets go.

The kiss is everything Cody has been missing: warmth, connection, love. It’s slow and deliberate, each movement filled with meaning. Roman’s lips move against his with a familiarity that makes Cody’s chest ache in the best way possible. He loses himself in it, in the way Roman’s body feels pressed against his, in the way their hearts seem to beat in sync.

When they finally pull apart, both of them are breathing heavily. Roman rests his forehead against Cody’s, his eyes closed as he takes a deep breath.

“God, I missed this,” Roman whispers.

“Me too,” Cody replies, his voice barely audible.

They stay like that for a moment longer before Roman straightens up, taking Cody’s hand and leading him further into the house. They settle on the couch, sitting close enough that their legs are touching. Roman drapes an arm around Cody’s shoulders, pulling him into his side.

Just as they’re about to start talking, Pharaoh lazily wanders in from the bedroom, stretching as though he’d just woken up from a nap. Once he yawns and shakes his body out, it’s almost as though he belatedly realizes his other dad has materialized. With a keening whine followed by several excited yaps, their beloved dog bounds across the small space and jumps onto Roman’s lap.

Roman barely has time to remove his arm from Cody’s shoulders before he catches Pharaoh. “Oof! Hi buddy. Listen, I really missed you but you aren’t a twenty pound pup anymore,” he laughs out. 

Cody watches as his boyfriend and their dog sweetly reunite, not missing the way Roman hugs Pharaoh extra close, giving several sweet kisses to the top of the canine’s head. The beautiful sight, the beautiful feeling of being home even here, is something that nearly takes Cody’s breath away.

When Roman looks over at Cody with pure, unabashed love in his eyes, it’s enough to take his breath away. He leans into his little family and breathes deeply. 

This is exactly what he’s been needing.

They talk for hours, catching up on everything they haven’t been able to share over the phone or FaceTime. Cody tells Roman about his matches, about the fans who have started recognizing him for more than just being part of the WWE or Dusty’s son, about the little victories that have made all the hard work worth it. Roman listens intently, asking questions and offering encouragement, his hand never leaving Cody’s.

As the night wears on, the conversation shifts to how hard the distance has been, how much they’ve missed each other. 

“We’ll figure it out,” Roman says finally, his voice firm but gentle. He lifts Cody’s chin with a soft touch, gently forcing him to look in his eyes.

Cody’s heart races as he locks eyes with Roman, the familiar heat between them crackling in the air like a live wire. Pharaoh lets out a soft bark, almost as if he’s urging them to get on with it. Cody laughs, glancing down at the dog. “Alright, buddy, you’ve had your time. Go on.” Pharaoh trots off, tail wagging, leaving the two men alone in the living room.

Roman’s smirk is immediate, that confident, knowing look that always sends a shiver down Cody’s spine. “Missed me that much, huh?” Roman teases, his voice low and husky, the kind of tone that makes Cody’s stomach twist with anticipation.

Cody doesn’t answer with words. He steps forward, his hands gripping the hem of Roman’s shirt and yanks it up over his head in one swift motion. Roman’s chest is bare now, muscles taut and glistening under the soft light. Cody’s fingers trace the hard lines of Roman’s abs, his touch lingering as he feels the warmth of Roman’s skin beneath his palms.

Roman’s breath catches, his eyes darkening as he watches Cody with an intensity that’s almost overwhelming. “Someone’s impatient,” he murmurs, his lips curving into that infuriatingly sexy smirk.

“You have no idea,” Cody replies, his voice thick with desire. He reaches for the waistband of Roman’s sweatpants, tugging them down with urgency. Roman steps out of them, his cock already hard and straining against his boxers. Cody wastes no time, peeling those off too, leaving Roman completely naked before him.

Roman’s hands are on Cody now, unbuttoning his shirt with a practiced ease that makes Cody’s breath hitch. The fabric falls to the floor, and Roman’s fingers slide over Cody’s bare chest, teasing his nipples until they’re hard and sensitive. Cody’s hands fumble with his own pants, shoving them down his legs along with his boxers, their discarded clothes forming a pile on the floor.

Roman steps closer, his body pressing against Cody’s, their cocks brushing together in a flash of electric heat. Cody groans, his hands gripping Roman’s hips as he pulls him even closer. “I need you,” Cody whispers, his lips brushing against Roman’s neck. 

Roman’s hands slide down Cody’s back, gripping his ass as he leans in to capture Cody’s lips in a searing kiss. Their mouths move together, tongues sliding against each other with a hunger that’s been building for months. Cody’s fingers tangle in Roman’s hair, pulling him closer, deepening the kiss until he’s lightheaded with need.

He breaks away, panting, his gaze locked on Roman’s. “Bed. Now.”

Roman doesn’t need to be told twice. 

And still I can’t let you be
Most nights I hardly sleep

The next morning Cody wakes to an empty bed, sheets cool beside him. For a disorienting second, panic tightens his throat until he hears it. Laughter. Roman’s deep chuckle mingling with Pharaoh’s excited yips from the living room. The tension bleeds out of him instantly, replaced by warmth spreading through his chest.

He pads barefoot down the hall, rubbing sleep from his eyes. The sight that greets him steals his breath. Roman is bare-chested in low-slung sweatpants, tossing a rope toy for Pharaoh while keeping one eye on the sizzling skillet in front of him. Bacon. Pancakes. Eggs. A feast laid out on the counter like some domestic fantasy Cody never knew he wanted this badly.

Roman turns at the sound of his footsteps. That familiar smirk curves his lips as he takes in Cody’s rumpled state. “Morning, sleepyhead.”

Pharaoh abandons the toy mid-fetch to barrel into Cody’s legs, tail wagging furiously. Cody crouches to ruffle his fur before straightening again. “You cooked.”

“Figured you deserved it.” Roman flips a pancake with effortless flair. “After last night.”

Heat prickles up Cody’s neck at the memory of Roman completely surrounding his senses in bed, taking him in the most reverent and intense manner. The way Roman had whispered you’re my everything afterward like it was sacred.

They eat in comfortable silence, their feet brushing under the table. Cody watches Roman across the table, the way his strong hands move as he cuts into his pancakes, the way his dark eyes flick up to meet Cody’s with a quiet intensity. He’s so beautiful, and Cody feels a pang of longing even though they’re sitting right here together.

So they eat like they have all the time in the world. Like this isn’t borrowed happiness. 

But evening comes too fast. They’re sprawled on opposite ends of the couch later, laptops open, comparing schedules with Pharaoh dozing between them. The silence stretches then snaps like a rubber band pulled too tight.

“Eight weeks,” Roman says finally. Flat. Unreadable.

Cody’s stomach drops. Eight weeks apart once Roman leaves tomorrow. A few days together after. Then another six weeks apart. “Yeah.”

Cody has signed a short-term contract with What Culture Pro Wrestling for a series of appearances and training meaning he’ll be in England for a lengthy period. Followed by a stint of shows across Canada, more training and shows in the states, and a potential deal to go to New Japan. For Roman, the WWE machine never stops turning and demanding his undivided attention. 

Their time together will decrease before it ever has a chance of increasing. 

Roman exhales hard through his nose, snapping his laptop shut with more force than necessary. “Is this what our relationship is going to be like from now on? Keeping up via text, struggling to make time for calls, seeing each other every few months or weeks for a few short hours before we do it all over again?”

The question isn’t what surprises Cody, it’s the quiet resignation in his partner’s tone even with his harsh moments. It’s like molten steel to his gut. “I know it’s hard, Ro. Trust me when I tell you that being without you is like missing a part of myself. But it won’t be like this forever,” Cody says.

“It won’t? When will it change?” Roman tilts his head as he gazes at Cody and questions him. His voice harbors no resentment, just pure curiosity and… hope. Roman hopes he’s wrong.

Cody wants to immediately reassure Roman that things will change one day. But he doesn’t know when that day will come. He doesn’t want to crush Roman’s hope, but he cannot make false promises to the man he loves. 

“I don’t know, Ro,” Cody whispers. “I wish I could give you a time frame, but I don’t have one. I don’t even know what or where my end goal is, other than that I want to be the best wrestler in the world and face other guys who want to achieve the same dream.”

Roman nods his head, and even in the midst of a sad conversation, reaches over to cover Cody’s hand with his own.

“I know, baby. I’m so proud of you,” Roman swears passionately. “And I want you to live out your dreams. But my dream is the WWE. And right now, our dreams… they seem incompatible,” he says slowly, eyes downturned. 

The breath is knocked out of Cody's chest. Neither of them are in the wrong for having separate dreams, but it hurts that these dreams seem to be driving a wedge in their relationship. “I… I know. You’re right.” 

“So what do we do?” Roman questions, the raw tone hurting Cody’s heart.

Tears flood his eyes and his throat constricts. The truth is that Cody doesn’t know what to do. He doesn’t want to be without Roman. But he also doesn’t want to spend all his time desperately missing his boyfriend and living for a few sacred moments every few months.

“I’m not sure, Ro,” Cody whispers. “I don’t know what to do.” 

Cody watches as Roman blinks back tears himself before he swallows. 

“I don’t know—” He stops himself, jaw working. When he looks up, his eyes are dark with fragility. “I can’t do this if it’s just… stolen moments between tours. Going months without each other, waiting by the phone in disappointment as the time zones create an ocean of emotional distance between us.” 

The words land like a punch. Because Cody knew this was coming. He’s been turning it over in his head for weeks now, how every goodbye feels heavier than the last. How resentment creeps in during those long stretches apart until even phone calls start feeling like obligations instead of lifelines, even while desperately missing his other half. 

Cody doesn’t want to choose between his dream career and his dream partner. 

“I don’t want us to hate each other someday when the distance becomes too much and we’ve been too selfish to let go,” Roman murmurs.

Cody’s throat burns. He reaches across Pharaoh to grip Roman’s wrist, anchoring himself as much as reaching for him. “Me either. I just… I don’t want to lose you,” Cody whispers, his voice breaking.

“You won’t,” Roman says fiercely. He takes Cody’s face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears that have started to fall. “You’ll never truly lose me, even if we weren’t together anymore. But maybe… maybe this is how we keep each other.”

Cody nods, though it feels like his chest is being ripped open. He leans into Roman’s touch, memorizing the feel of his hands, the warmth of his skin. “One last time?” he asks, his voice barely audible.

Roman moves first. One second they’re staring at each other across the couch; the next, Roman’s hauling him up by the front of his shirt into a kiss that tastes like desperation. It’s messy—all clashing teeth and grasping hands—but Cody doesn’t care. It’s desperate and tender all at once, a collision of love and loss that leaves them both breathless. He fists both hands in Roman’s hair as they stumble toward the bedroom, Pharaoh whining in confusion behind them.

They undress each other slowly, their hands trembling as they peel away layers of clothing. Every touch is deliberate, every kiss a silent promise. When they’re finally skin to skin, Roman lays Cody down on the bed, his body covering him like a shield.

He kisses his way down Cody’s chest, his lips trailing fire over every inch of skin. Cody arches into him, his hands gripping the sheets as Roman takes him into his mouth. The heat is overwhelming, and Cody moans, his hips bucking involuntarily. Roman works him with a skill that borders on worship, his tongue swirling and his lips sucking until Cody is trembling on the edge.

Cody can’t do foreplay right now. His mind is cloudy and his heart is heavy, he just needs the familiar weight of Roman on top of him, inside of him, all around him. 

“Ro,” Cody gasps, tugging at his hair. “I need you.”

Roman pulls back, his eyes dark with desire as he reaches for the lube on the nightstand. He slicks himself up quickly, his gaze never leaving Cody’s. When he presses inside, it’s slow and deliberate, giving Cody time to adjust to the stretch. The fullness is almost too much, but Cody wraps his legs around Roman’s waist, pulling him closer.

They move together in a rhythm that’s as familiar as it is heartbreaking. Every thrust is a reminder of what they’re losing, every moan a testament to what they’ve shared. Cody clings to Roman, his nails digging into his back as he whispers his name like a prayer.

Roman buries his face in Cody’s neck, his breath hot against his skin. “I love you,” he murmurs, his voice rough with emotion. “Always.”

Cody turns his head, capturing Roman’s lips in a kiss that’s as much a goodbye as it is a promise. They come together, their bodies shuddering as they reach their peak. For a moment the distance, the pain, the uncertainty all fades away. There’s only this: Roman and Cody, tangled together in a love that feels infinite.

When it’s over, they stay like that, their hearts pounding in unison. Roman presses a kiss to Cody’s forehead, his arms tightening around him. He clings to Roman, memorizing the feel of him, the strength of his arms, the steady beat of his heart. Because no matter what happens next, this moment will always be theirs.

It’s like wishin’ for rain as I stand in the desert
But I’m holding you closer than most cause you are my heaven 

Cody wakes to the soft press of lips against his shoulder, the warmth of Roman’s breath lingering on his skin. He stirs, blinking sleep from his eyes, and finds Roman already dressed, hands resting on his lap. Roman’s eyes are heavy, a sadness in them that makes Cody’s chest tighten.

“Morning,” Roman murmurs, his voice low, almost hesitant. His hand brushes Cody’s cheek, the touch tender but fleeting. “I have to go soon. Flight’s in two hours.”

Cody sits up, the sheets pooling around his waist. He doesn’t say anything, just watches as Roman moves around the room, gathering his things. The silence between them is thick, weighted with everything they haven’t said, everything they’ve been avoiding since last night. Roman pauses by the bed, his gaze locking with Cody’s. For a moment, it feels like he might say something, but instead, he just leans down and presses another kiss to Cody’s forehead.

“I’ll miss you,” Roman says quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Cody swallows hard, his throat tight. “I’ll miss you too.”

Roman steps back, his expression unreadable, and heads toward the door. Cody follows him, his heart pounding in his chest. In the living room, Pharaoh lifts his head from where he’s sprawled on the couch, his piercing blue eyes watching them intently. Roman crouches down, scratching behind the husky’s ears.

“Hey buddy. Take care of him for me, yeah?” Roman says softly, his voice thick with emotion. Pharaoh nuzzles into his hand, as if he understands.

Cody stands there, feeling like he’s watching a scene from someone else’s life. He watches, his chest constricting with every passing second, not missing the tears glistening in Roman’s eyes as he says goodbye to their dog. Cody forces himself to stand, his legs feeling unsteady beneath him. He grabs a hoodie from the chair and pulls it on, the fabric doing little to ward off the chill that’s settled in his bones.

This can’t be real. This can’t be the end. But when Roman straightens and turns to face him, the look in his eyes tells Cody everything he needs to know.

They solemnly hold hands as they step outside onto the porch, the cool morning air biting at Cody’s skin. Roman hesitates for a moment before pulling Cody into his arms, their bodies pressed together in a tight embrace. Cody buries his face in Roman’s shoulder, breathing in the familiar scent of him; clean and warm, with just a hint of cologne.

“I don’t want you to go,” Cody whispers, his voice breaking.

Roman’s arms tighten around him. “I don’t want to leave.”

But they both know he has to. Roman pulls back slightly, his hands cupping Cody’s face. Their eyes meet, and for a moment, the world around them fades away. Then Roman leans in, his lips brushing against Cody’s in a kiss that starts soft, almost tentative, but quickly deepens. Cody’s hands grip Roman’s shoulders, holding on like he’s afraid to let go. The kiss is desperate, full of all the things they haven’t said, all the emotions they’ve been holding back.

When they finally break apart, both of them are breathless. Roman rests his forehead against Cody’s, his eyes closed. “I love you,” he says quietly.

“I love you too,” Cody replies, his voice trembling. He steps closer, his hands resting on Roman’s chest. “Promise me,” he says, his voice trembling. “Promise me we’ll find our way back to each other.”

Roman’s hands come up to cup Cody’s face, his touch gentle but firm. “I promise,” he says, his voice steady. He leans in, his lips brushing against Cody’s in a kiss that’s soft and tender, yet filled with an urgency that makes Cody’s stomach twist.

The kiss deepens, their bodies pressing together as if trying to erase the distance that’s about to separate them. Cody’s fingers grip the fabric of Roman’s shirt, holding on as if he could keep him there forever. Roman’s hands slide down Cody’s back, pulling him closer, their breaths mingling in the space between them.

When they finally pull apart, both are breathless, their foreheads resting together. “I love you,” Roman whispers, his voice raw.

“I love you too,” Cody replies, his voice breaking. He feels the sting of tears in his eyes, and he blinks them back, unwilling to let Roman see him fall apart.

Roman steps back, his hands lingering on Cody’s arms for a moment before he lets go. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a folded piece of paper, pressing it into Cody’s hand. “Read this after I’m gone,” he says, his voice soft but firm.

Cody looks down at the envelope, his throat tightening. He nods, unable to find the words to respond. Roman gives him one last lingering look before turning and walking down the porch steps. Cody watches as he gets into the car, his heart breaking with every step Roman takes away from him.

The car pulls away, the sound of the engine fading into the distance. Cody stands there, the envelope clutched tightly in his hand, the world around him feeling eerily silent. He sinks down onto the porch steps, his legs giving out beneath him.

The envelope feels heavy in his hands, like it holds more than just words. He opens it carefully, pulling out a single sheet of paper. Roman’s handwriting is neat and precise, each word carefully chosen.

Cody,

I don’t even know where to start. How do you put into words everything you feel for someone who means so much to you? You’ve been my rock, my safe place, my everything. I never thought I’d find someone who could understand me the way you do and love me for who I really am.

Leaving you is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. But I need you to know that this isn’t the end for us. It can’t be. You’re a part of me now, and no amount of distance or time will ever change that.

I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know one thing: I’ll find my way back to you one day. No matter where I am, what I’m doing, or how long it takes… you’ll always be my home.

Chase your dreams, baby boy. You are undeniable. I will always be your biggest supporter.

I love you, Cody. More than words can ever say.

Roman

Tears blur Cody’s vision as he reads the letter over and over again, each word carving itself into his heart. 

The sun rises higher in the sky, the world around him coming to life, but Cody feels frozen in place. He sits on the porch, the letter clutched tightly in his hand, the weight of Roman’s words pressing down on him.

Eventually, Pharaoh trots out onto the porch, his sad blue eyes watching Cody with quiet understanding. He sits down beside Cody, leaning his head against Cody’s leg. Cody reaches out, his fingers burying in Pharaoh’s thick fur, the touch grounding him.

“He’s gone,” Cody whispers, his voice breaking. Pharaoh nuzzles against him, offering the only comfort he can.

Cody sits there, the letter still clutched in his hand, the tears falling freely now. The ache in his chest is unbearable, the emptiness Roman left behind consuming him. But as he sits there, the sun warm on his face and Pharaoh’s steady presence beside him, he finds a small measure of solace in Roman’s words.

I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know one thing: I’ll find my way back to you one day.

Heaven doesn’t seem far away anymore 

Chapter Text

October 2017 - September 2018

Roman scrolls through his Twitter feed, his thumb restlessly flicking over the screen. 

It’s late, and he should be asleep. Tomorrow is a long day of media appearances and training, but sleep hasn’t come easy in the time since he moved away from Orlando and the ex-love of his life. 

His jaw tightens as he sees the notification that a fan has tagged him in a tweet. Ready for something completely unhinged, hateful, or both, he clicks it, and there it is: Cody’s face, grinning a cocky (okay, hot) grin, captioned with his own words. “I am the biggest damn draw in this entire industry.”

Roman’s chest tightens as he clicks on the link and reads the summary of the promo. As he finishes, his mind tries desperately not to travel back in time to that apartment in New Jersey where he initiated a breakup with the only person who ever really loved him. It’s been a year and Roman still desperately tries not to think of the man with piercing blue eyes who has a stranglehold on his heart. He refuses to follow Cody’s career, refuses to Google his name, refuses to be reminded of him in any way since the sale of their house at the beginning of the year.

And now here Cody is, successful indie revolution, being shoved in his face. Roman’s fingers hover over his phone. He shouldn’t engage. He knows better. But something about that smirk, that bolstered confidence of a clearly heel persona, with just the right touch of Cody-ness underneath it all, makes his blood boil. 

Or maybe it’s something else entirely. Like the way his heart still skips a beat when he sees Cody’s face. 

Hence, his need to avoid seeing it these past several months.

He types quickly, his thumbs moving almost of their own accord before he can stop himself. “I don’t even need to click the link and watch it.  If that house didn’t draw over 100K. He’s just talking silly.” He hits send before he can second-guess himself.

The response comes almost immediately in the form of a quote tweet from Cody himself. “At least I’m not stuck in the same old routine, doing the same old schtick that I hate. How’s that Big Dog thing working out for you?”

Roman’s lips twitch despite himself. Cody always knew how to get under his skin. He fires back, “Better than your indie darling act. Selling out a high school gym isn’t quite like selling out an arena. Step back up to the big leagues if you want to prove how much of a draw you are.”

The response comes almost immediately. “Big leagues? You mean the place where I was held back? Nah, I’m good. I’ll keep drawing crowds without the handcuffs.”

The banter escalates quickly, each tweet sharper than the last. Fans are eating it up, retweeting and commenting with glee. Roman can almost hear Cody’s voice in his head, that teasing lilt that used to drive him crazy in the best way. He should not be doing this. He shouldn’t be giving Cody the satisfaction. He shouldn’t be setting himself up for the trouble he knows is coming with his bosses. But there’s something addictive about it, a twinge that feels like…

Home. A place that Roman hasn’t known ever since he let Cody walk out his life. 

Finally, Cody tweets, “You know, if you miss me that much, you could just say it.”

Roman stares at the screen, his heart pounding. He doesn’t know how to respond. Because the truth is, he does miss Cody. He misses the way Cody would laugh at his jokes even when they weren’t funny. He misses the way Cody would lean into him after a long day, his body warm and solid against his own. He misses the way Cody looked at him, like he was the only person in the room. He misses everything.

But he can’t say that. Not here. Not like this.

Roman tosses his phone onto the couch and runs a hand over his face. This is ridiculous. He’s a grown man, not some teenager caught up in a petty feud with his ex. But Cody is the only person capable of making him feel like he’s sixteen again, all raw nerves and unchecked emotions. 

It’s not until he steps out of the shower later that night that he sees the bomb that Cody dropped. 

In yet another promo for Ring of Honor, he delivers a scathing critique of the WWE system, his words dripping with venom, but it’s what he says at the end that makes Roman understand what this is really all about. “…some people are content to stay in their little bubble, playing it safe and following the script written for them while silently seething about how much they hate the character they’ve been boxed into. But me? I’m out here making history. I don’t need a machine behind me to prove my worth like other people whose names aren’t worth mentioning.”

Roman watches the video, his stomach churning. It’s not just a shot at the WWE, it’s a shot at him. Cody’s always been good with words, but this? This is next level. Roman feels a surge of anger, but beneath it, there’s a mixture of something else that feels dangerously close to longing and pride. 

He’s proud of Cody. 

He’s also mad as hell at Cody. 

He grabs his phone and calls the one person who has his back no matter what, needing to vent. The phone picks up on the second ring, the voice on the other end calm and steady. “Hey, man. What’s up?”

“Did you see Cody’s promo?” Roman asks, his tone clipped.

“Hard not to with all the noise you two have caused,” Seth replies carefully. “It’s… intense.”

“Intense? It’s a fucking attack,” Roman snaps. “He’s acting like I’m some corporate puppet, like I don’t have any say in my own career.”

Seth sighs. “Look, Rome, you know how Cody is now. He’s on a journey of proving himself, of breaking free from expectations. Maybe this isn’t about you at all.”

“It feels like it’s about me,” Roman mutters, pacing the room. “And you know what? Maybe he’s right. Maybe I am playing it safe. Maybe I’ve been stuck in this bubble for too long.”

There’s a pause on the other end of the line. “You thinking about making a change?” Seth asks cautiously.

Roman stops pacing, staring out the window at the city lights below. “I don’t know,” he admits. “But I do know one thing. I’m tired of this. Tired of the politics, tired of the same old routine. And I’m tired of feeling like I’m stuck in place while Cody’s out there living his best life.”

Seth chuckles softly. “Sounds like someone’s got a case of the green-eyed monster.”

Roman frowns. “It’s not jealousy,” he insists. “It’s… frustration. I just feel like I’m missing something, you know? Like there’s more out there for me, but I don’t know how to reach it.”

“You’re missing Cody,” Seth says softly. 

Roman’s eyes well up with tears before he furiously blinks them away. “Not all of us are so lucky to have found our soulmate and get to work beside them every damn day,” Roman says bitingly.

The soft chuckle from Seth lets Roman know his tone hasn’t upset his best friend. “Yeah well, you try living with that man and then tell me how lucky I am. He is chaos personified.” 

Despite the ribbing on his partner’s behalf, Roman hears the fondness and love Seth carries for Dean and it makes his heart ache. 

He knows what it’s like to have that and now it’s all gone. 

After a few silent beats, Seth speaks up. “Maybe you need to take a page out of Cody’s book,” he suggests. “Step outside your comfort zone, take some risks. You’ve got the talent, man. You just need to believe in yourself and speak up for what you want. Being a good soldier only gets you so far.”

Roman sighs, running a hand over his face. “Easier said than done.”

“True,” Seth agrees. “But you’re not alone, Rome. Whatever you decide, I’ve got your back. So does Dean.”

Roman smiles faintly, grateful for Seth’s support. “Thanks, Sethie. I appreciate it.”

After hanging up, Roman sits back down on the couch, his mind racing. He replays Cody’s promo in his head, the words echoing in his mind. Maybe Seth’s right, he thinks. Maybe it’s time for a change. But the thought of stepping into the unknown is terrifying. 

As he sits there, lost in thought, he gets a sudden urge he can’t ignore. He grabs his phone again and opens his messages. Before he can think better of it, he types, “We need to talk.”

The response comes a few minutes later. “About what?”

Roman hesitates. What is there to talk about? They’ve been over for a year. They’ve both moved on in the form of throwing themselves into their careers. But seeing Cody’s name pop up on his screen, hearing his voice in his head… it’s like no time has passed at all.

“About us,” he finally replies.

There’s a long pause before Cody responds. “There is no ‘us,’ Roman. You made sure of that.”

Roman leans back in his seat and closes his eyes. Roman had initiated their breakup that sad night in New Jersey, but it wasn’t what he wanted. Not even close. He’d just been scared of how much he needed Cody, scared of how much it hurt to love someone who seemed to be pulling away—even if unintentionally—down a path that Roman couldn’t be a part of. 

Meanwhile Roman was slowly drowning under the weight of being the person chosen to be the face of the company all while the fans hated him, he hated his characterization, and his peers shot looks of sympathy at him constantly, making it all so much worse. His love for work had been unraveling since his Rumble win, but telling Cody any of that seemed incredibly selfish given that what Cody was going through was so much more. 

So. Roman thought it was the right thing to do at the time, but now he’s not so sure. Because no matter how much distance he puts between them, Cody is still there, lingering in the corners of his mind.

It’s been ten months since they last spoke or saw each other in person, since they stood in their empty house once full of love, having divided their lives into boxes. He remembers the way Cody had avoided his eyes, the way he’d mumbled excuses about being too busy to make it back to Orlando sooner for the sale of the house: flights across the world, indie shows in every city across the country, training in exciting new gyms. The sale was supposed to be amicable, but Roman had felt like Cody was avoiding him, dragging his feet on the sale so that he didn’t have to see Roman. 

So Roman made things harder than it needed to be by making snarky comments about Cody’s new life, starting petty arguments about keeping things he never really wanted, and altogether making an already unpleasant experience downright unbearable. All in the name of stubbornly protecting his own heart from the excruciating pain. 

And now, here they are all these months later, still tangled up in each other’s lives in the most public way possible. 

Roman stands abruptly, pacing the room as he tries to clear his head. He needs to do something to distract himself from the storm of emotions swirling inside him. He stops in front of the mirror, staring at his reflection. His eyes are dark, his jaw set in a hard line. He looks angry, but beneath the surface, he feels raw and vulnerable, exposed. 

“Why did you do it?” he mutters to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. “Why did you let him go?”

The question hangs in the air, unanswered. But deep down, Roman knows why. He never felt like he was enough for Cody. 

Now he’s paying the ultimate price.

When the silence came, we were shaking blind and hazy
How the hell did we lose sight of us again?

Roman stares out the airplane window, the clouds below him a blur of white and gray. The hum of the engine is steady, almost soothing, but it does little to quiet the storm in his mind. His fingers tap restlessly against the armrest, his other hand clutching his phone. Connected to the airline’s crappy wifi, he’s been scrolling through Cody’s social media for the better part of the flight, his thumb pausing every time he sees a new post.

Cody’s face is everywhere. Bright, smiling, confident, triumphant. He’s built something so incredible, something Roman can’t help but admire. All In. The name of the event echoes in Roman’s head like a mantra. Eleven thousand fans. A sold-out arena. Cody’s incredibly hard work paid off into a dream realized. 

Roman’s chest feels tight with pride, longing, and regret.

He closes his eyes, leaning back against the seat. It’s been almost a year since their last conversation. Their Twitter exchange had been sharp, cutting, and Roman had let his bitterness get the better of him. But after that he couldn’t stop watching Cody’s career from afar. If before that night he had refused to follow Cody’s career, now he was borderline obsessive about it. Every match, every promo, every milestone… Roman has followed it all. He tells himself it’s just curiosity, just professional interest. 

Crying when Cody lost his ROH championship is totally normal for professional curiosity and an ex you’re definitely not still crazy in love with, right? 

The plane begins its descent, and Roman’s stomach lurches, though not from the turbulence. Chicago looms below, a sprawling city of steel and glass. He’s not sure why he’s here. He doesn’t have a ticket to the show. He doesn’t even plan to leave the hotel room. But something about being in the same city as Cody, even if they’re miles apart, feels necessary. Like he needs to be close, even if it’s just for a moment.

The hotel room is nondescript: clean, modern, and utterly impersonal. Roman drops his bag by the door and flips on the TV to quickly purchase the PPV. The event hasn’t started yet, but the pre-show chatter is already buzzing. He sits on the edge of the bed, his eyes fixed on the screen. The camera pans over the crowd, thousands of fans wearing various merch for the talent they’re in attendance to support, including Cody’s. He sees dozens of fans holding signs with his name. Roman feels a lump rise in his throat.

He did this. Cody did this. And Roman wasn’t there to see it happen. He should be by Cody’s side, cheering him on, celebrating this moment with him. But he’s not. He’s here, alone, watching from a distance.

The show begins, and Roman is transfixed. Cody’s match isn’t until midway through the card, but just the fact that Cody had a hand in putting this all together has him glued to each match, each storyline, each fan reaction.

And then it’s finally time. 

Cody’s entrance is electric, the crowd roaring as he steps into the ring. Roman leans forward, his heart pounding. He watches every move, every gesture, every expression. Cody is in his element, commanding the audience with ease. Roman feels a surge of pride so intense it almost takes his breath away.

But beneath that pride is a quiet ache. He misses Cody. Not just the man he used to be, but the man he’s become. The man who’s standing in that ring, living his dream. Roman’s chest tightens as he realizes there’s more of Cody to miss now.

The match is a masterpiece, and when Cody wins, the crowd erupts. Roman claps softly, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You did it,” he murmurs to the empty room. “You really did it.”

The NWA title that Dusty held multiple times is now in Cody’s hands. It’s beautiful to see. 

As the show winds down, Roman finds himself scrolling through his contacts. His thumb hovers over Cody’s name. He could call or text him. He could tell him how proud he is, how much he’s missed him. But how could he possibly say that after all this time?

He sets the phone down, running a hand through his hair. The room feels too quiet now. He stands and paces, his thoughts racing. He shouldn’t be here. This is Cody’s night, and Roman has no right to intrude. But the pull is undeniable, like a magnet drawing him closer.

He grabs his jacket and heads for the door before he can second-guess himself. The night air is cool against his skin as he steps outside. The streets are alive with energy, fans spilling out of the arena, their voices loud and excited. Roman blends into the crowd, his hood pulled low over his face. He doesn’t know where he’s going, but he knows he needs to move.

He finds himself standing outside the arena, staring up at the glowing lights. The place is still buzzing with activity, and Roman wonders if Cody is still inside. His heart pounds as he considers going in, but he hesitates. How would he get backstage? What would he even say? “Hey, I flew across the country to watch your show from a hotel room”? It sounds ridiculous even in his head. He just wants to be there with him. 

As Roman turns and rushes back to his hotel room, suddenly feeling foolish and not wanting anyone to spot him, he ponders to himself. What did he think would happen in coming here? Cody doesn’t need him. He’s thriving on his own, building something incredible without Roman’s help. 

He enters the hotel room and frustratingly throws his phone at the bed. Almost as soon as he does, the phone buzzes, breaking the silence. Roman glances at it, expecting another notification or maybe a text from someone about work. But when he picks it up, his breath catches. 

It’s Cody.

He hesitates for a moment before answering, his voice soft, tentative. “Hey.”

“Roman,” Cody says, and there’s a softness in his tone that makes Roman’s heart skip a beat. “I… I just wanted to hear your voice. Hi.”

Roman swallows hard, his grip tightening on the phone. “Cody…”

“I know it’s been a while. And the last time we interacted I used it for promo fodder,” Cody continues, his voice trembling slightly. “But tonight… tonight was big for me. Huge. And I just… you’re the only person I could think about.”

“I’m here,” Roman promises. He sits on the edge of the hotel bed, phone still pressed to his ear, his heart pounding in his chest. The silence on the other end of the line feels heavy. He can hear Cody breathing, steady but shallow, as if he’s holding back just as much as Roman is.

It’s time to be brave.

“I’m here,” Roman repeats, his voice low, almost a whisper. “In Chicago. I couldn’t… I couldn’t stay away.”

There’s another pause, and then Cody’s voice comes through, softer now, almost awestruck. “You’re here? In Chicago?”

“Yeah,” Roman says, running a hand through his hair. “I watched your show. You were incredible tonight, Cody. All In was everything you’ve been working for. Everything you deserve.”

Cody lets out a small laugh. “You watched it?”

“Of course I did,” Roman says, his voice firm. “I’ve been watching everything you do. You’re… you’re killing it out there. I’m so proud of you.”

“Thanks,” Cody says after a moment, his voice quiet. “That… that means a lot.”

Roman nods, even though Cody can’t see him. He wants to say more, to tell Cody how much he’s missed him, how much he’s thought about him every single day since they last saw each other. But the words stick in his throat, caught somewhere between fear and longing.

“How’ve you been?” Cody asks, breaking the silence. His tone is lighter now, but there’s an undercurrent of tension.

Roman hesitates, his fingers tightening around the phone. “I’ve been… okay. Busy. You know how it is.”

“Yeah,” Cody says softly. “I know.”

There’s another pause, and Roman can feel the tension building between them, thick and electric. He wants to reach through the phone and pull Cody closer, to feel the warmth of his skin, the solidity of his presence. But all he has is this fragile connection, this fragile moment.

“Cody,” Roman starts, his voice rough. “I…”

“Why did you come?” Cody interrupts, his tone sharper now, more insistent. “Why are you here, Roman?”

Roman swallows hard, his throat dry. He knows that Cody’s asking for the truth, for the reason behind all of this. And Roman knows he owes him that much.

“I couldn’t stay away,” Roman admits, his voice barely above a whisper. “I tried, Cody. I really tried. But I… I needed to be close to you. I couldn’t be in another city when you were accomplishing something this monumental.”

There’s a long silence on the other end of the line, and Roman can feel his heart racing, his palms sweating. He doesn’t know what Cody’s thinking, what he’s feeling. 

“I miss you,” Cody says finally, his voice breaking noticeably. “I miss you so much, Roman.”

The words hit Roman like a punch to the gut, and he closes his eyes, letting them sink in. 

“I miss you too,” Roman says hoarsely.

There’s another pause, and then Cody takes a deep breath. “Where are you staying?”

Roman gives him the hotel information, his heart pounding in his chest. He doesn’t know what’s going to happen next, but he knows one thing for sure: he needs to see Cody in front of him. He needs to be close to him.

“I’ll be there,” Cody says, his voice firm now, resolute.

Roman nods, even though Cody can’t see him. “I’ll be waiting.”

When Cody arrives at the hotel room, Roman is pacing nervously by the window. He hears the knock on the door and takes a deep breath before opening it. There stands Cody, looking just as he had on the television—strong, confident, but with a vulnerability in his eyes that makes Roman’s chest ache.

“Hey,” Cody says softly, stepping inside.

“Hey,” Roman replies, closing the door behind him.

They stand there for a moment, just looking at each other, the air between them charged with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. Roman wants to reach out and touch him, to pull him close and never let go. But he holds back, unsure if that’s okay.

“You look good,” Roman says finally, breaking the silence. “Love the blonde.” 

Cody smiles sheepishly and absently runs a hand through his own hair. “You look good too.”

They move to sit on the edge of the bed, the space between them shrinking but still feeling vast. Roman tries to keep things light, praising Cody for his performance at All In and asking about his plans for the future. They talk about Pharaoh and Roman’s chest aches with missing their dog. After that it doesn’t take long for the conversation to turn deeper, for the walls they’ve built around themselves to start crumbling.

“Why did you really come here, Roman?” Cody asks again, his voice soft but insistent.

Roman looks at him, his heart pounding in his chest. “I already told you I couldn’t be in another city when you’re living out your dreams.” 

“Tell me why,” Cody pleads. 

“I couldn’t stay away,” Roman admits, his voice rough with emotion. “Because I needed to see you. Because I fucking need you Cody.”

The words hang in the air between them, heavy and raw. Roman can feel his heart racing, his palms sweating. He doesn’t know what Cody’s going to say, how he’s going to react. All he knows is that he’s laid himself bare, and now he’s waiting for Cody to do the same.

Cody looks at him, his eyes searching Roman’s face. And then he leans in, closing the distance between them, and presses his lips to Roman’s in a kiss that’s tender and urgent all at once.

Roman freezes for a moment, caught off guard by the suddenness of it. But then he responds, his hands coming up to cup Cody’s face as he deepens the kiss, pouring all of his longing and love into it.

They break apart after a moment, both of them breathing heavily. Cody looks at Roman, his eyes dark with emotion. “I need you too.” 

I feel you no matter what
The rubies that I gave up

Roman’s hands are already moving, sliding up Cody’s back, pulling him closer until their chests press together. The kiss deepens, urgent and hungry, their lips parting as their tongues meet. Cody’s fingers tangle in Roman’s hair, tugging slightly, and Roman groans into his mouth, the sound low and possessive.

“Ro,” Cody breathes, his voice shaky, and Roman can feel the way his body trembles against him. It’s not just desire. It’s their deeper emotional connection that makes Roman’s chest ache even as his cock hardens painfully in his jeans.

Roman doesn’t waste time. His hands drop to Cody’s waist, gripping the hem of his shirt and yanking it over his head in one swift motion. Cody’s skin is warm under his palms, and Roman can’t resist running his hands over the defined muscles of his chest, his thumbs brushing over Cody’s nipples. Cody gasps, arching into the touch, and Roman smirks against his lips.

“You’re so fucking beautiful,” Roman murmurs, his voice rough with need. He leans in, capturing Cody’s mouth again, his hands moving lower to slide down the waistband of Cody’s sweats. Cody’s hands are just as eager, fumbling with Roman’s belt, and soon they’re both kicking off their pants, their boxers following in a messy heap on the floor.

Roman steps back for a moment, his eyes raking over Cody’s body. He’s hard, his cock standing proud against his stomach, and Roman feels a surge of heat low in his gut. He reaches out, wrapping his hand around Cody’s length, and Cody moans, his head falling back.

“Fuck, Ro,” he whispers, his hips jerking forward into Roman’s grip. Roman strokes him slowly, watching the way Cody’s face twists with pleasure, the way his breath comes in short, uneven gasps.

But Roman wants more. He wants to see Cody fall apart completely.

“On the bed, baby boy,” he says, his voice firm but soft. Cody doesn’t hesitate, climbing onto the mattress and lying back, his eyes dark with anticipation. Roman follows him, kneeling between Cody’s legs, his hands sliding up his thighs. He leans down, pressing a kiss to the inside of Cody’s knee, then higher, his lips trailing up his thigh.

Cody’s breath hitches when Roman’s mouth brushes against the base of his cock, and he lets out a low groan when Roman bypasses it entirely, moving lower. Roman’s hands grip Cody’s hips, holding him in place as he spreads him open, his tongue pressing against his entrance.

“Oh my god,” Cody gasps, his hands flying to Roman’s shoulders. Roman doesn’t stop, his tongue working him open, slow and deliberate. Cody’s hips jerk, but Roman holds him firmly, his mouth hot and insistent.

“Ro, please,” Cody whimpers, his voice breaking. Roman can feel the way his body trembles, the way he’s already on the edge, and it only makes him want to push him further. He adds a finger, pressing it inside alongside his tongue, and Cody cries out, his back arching off the bed.

“That’s it, baby boy,” Roman murmurs against his skin, his voice thick with desire. “Let me in.”

Cody’s hands tighten on Roman’s shoulders, his nails digging into his skin as Roman works him open with his tongue and fingers. 

“Ro, I… I can’t—” Cody stammers, his voice trembling. Roman pulls back just enough to look up at him, his eyes dark with need.

“You can,” he says firmly. “You’re doing so good for me.”

Cody’s eyes flutter shut, a moan escaping his lips as Roman adds another finger, stretching him gently. He’s panting now, his body taut with tension, and Roman knows he’s about to come undone.

“Please,” Cody whispers, his voice barely audible. “I need your cock. Inside me. Now.”

Roman doesn’t need to be told twice. He pulls back, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand before sitting up against the headboard. He reaches for the lube on the nightstand, slicking himself up quickly before pulling Cody into his lap. Their favorite position, once allowing them to be so intimate.

Cody straddles him, his hands resting on Roman’s shoulders as he positions himself over Roman’s cock. Roman grips his hips, guiding him down slowly, and Cody lets out a low moan as he sinks onto him.

“Fuck,” Cody breathes, his head falling forward as he takes all of Roman in. Roman can feel the way he clenches around him, tight and hot, and it takes all of his self-control not to thrust up into him.

“You feel so good,” Roman murmurs, his hands sliding up Cody’s sides. “So fucking perfect.”

Cody starts to move, rocking his hips slowly at first, but it doesn’t take long for him to find a rhythm. Roman watches him, his hands gripping Cody’s hips as he rides him, his cock sliding in and out of him with every movement.

Cody’s movements become more frantic, his breath coming in short gasps as he chases his release. Roman can feel the way his body tightens around him, the way he’s so close to the edge, and it only makes him want to push him further.

“Come for me,” Roman growls, his hands tightening on Cody’s hips. “Let go.”

Cody cries out, his body shuddering as he comes, his cock pulsing between them. Roman feels him clench around him, and it’s enough to push him over the edge too. He thrusts up into Cody once, twice, before he’s coming hard, his vision going white as he spills inside him.

They stay like that for a moment, their bodies pressed together as they catch their breath. Cody collapses against Roman’s chest, his head resting on his shoulder, and Roman wraps his arms around him, holding him close.

“Ro,” Cody whispers, his voice soft and sleepy.

“Yeah?” Roman murmurs, pressing a kiss to the top of his head.

Cody hesitates for a moment before speaking again. “I—”

Whatever it is he wants to say, he stops himself. But Roman knows, as surely as he knows the sky is blue, that Cody still loves him too. 

“I know, baby boy. I know,” Roman says softly, running his fingers over the soft skin of Cody’s back. 

The silence descends upon them once again. After a few moments Cody becomes restless and lets out a long sigh. 

“Ro?”

“Yeah?” 

Cody sighs again. “I’m really sorry I called you scared. And that your name wasn’t worth mentioning.” 

Roman chuckles lowly. “You forgot to mention hiding behind a character I hate.” 

Pushing up to prop himself on Roman’s chest, Cody winces. “Yeah… and that. I’m sorry. That was low. I wasn’t in the best place.” 

“I wasn’t exactly kind to you either. You know the industry better than I do, if you put it out there or engage in online discourse… well that’s fair game,” Roman shrugs.

Cody nods but still looks troubled. And as much as Roman would love to hear more from Cody after so long without, he wants to savor this moment in time more. Throwing himself back into the angst of their breakup or turbulent online spat just isn’t in him right now. So instead, he leans forward to press his lips against Cody’s, holding them there long enough to feel the other man’s body starting to respond once again. 

“Cody?” He murmurs against his lips. 

“Yeah, Ro?” 

“The blonde hair? So fucking hot.” 

He swallows Cody’s laughter inside another searing kiss.

The mark you saw on my collarbone, the rust that grew between telephones
The lips I used to call home, so scarlet, it was (maroon)

Roman stirs first the next morning, his arm still draped around Cody’s waist, their bodies tangled together under the sheets. He blinks awake, the events of the night flooding back to him in a rush. Cody’s voice, his touch, the way they’d come together like they were made for each other—again and again and again. A small smile tugs at his lips as he glances down at Cody, still asleep, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm.

Cody shifts beside him, his eyes fluttering open. “Morning,” he murmurs, his voice rough with sleep.

“Morning,” Roman replies, his tone softer than he intends. “Sleep okay?”

“Better than I have in weeks,” Cody admits, stretching lazily before sitting up. He glances at the clock and groans. “I should probably get moving. Want to shower before your flight?”

Roman nods, though the thought of leaving already makes his chest ache. “Yeah, sounds good.”

Cody slips out of bed, his bare skin catching the light as he moves toward the bathroom. Roman watches him go, his gaze lingering on the curve of his back, the way his muscles shift with every step. He forces himself to look away, focusing instead on the sound of the shower starting.

By the time Roman joins him, the bathroom is filled with steam, the air thick and warm. Cody stands under the spray, his head tilted back as the water runs over his body. Roman steps in behind him, his hands finding Cody’s hips almost instinctively. Cody leans into the touch, his breath hitching slightly as Roman presses a kiss to the nape of his neck.

“Missed this,” Roman murmurs, his lips brushing against Cody’s skin.

“Me too,” Cody admits, turning to face him. Their eyes meet, and for a moment, it’s like the rest of the world fades away. Roman cups Cody’s face in his hands, his thumbs brushing over his cheeks as he leans in to kiss him. It’s slow at first, tender, but it doesn’t take long for the heat between them to build. Cody’s hands slide up Roman’s chest, his fingers tracing the lines of his muscles as their kiss deepens.

Roman pulls back just enough to catch his breath, his forehead resting against Cody’s. “We should probably get going,” he says reluctantly.

Cody nods, though he doesn’t seem in any hurry to move. “Yeah,” he agrees, his voice barely above a whisper.

They finish showering quickly after that, though neither of them seems eager to leave the warmth of the water. By the time they’re dressed, Roman can feel the tension creeping back in.

Cody grabs his phone from the nightstand, his brow furrowing. He hesitates for a moment before dialing a number and stepping into the hallway, signaling that he’ll be right back. Roman tries not to listen, but he can’t help overhearing snippets of the conversation. Cody’s voice soft, almost apologetic, and the name “Kenny” repeated more than once.

Roman’s stomach sinks. He knows Kenny means Kenny Omega. He’s watched how close the two men have become and he may or may not obsessively look for new episodes of Being the Elite just for glimpses of Cody.

It’s not like he threw up in his mouth seeing Cody and Kenny kiss for one of the videos. No one could prove that or anything. 

When Cody walks back into the room, Roman is sitting on the edge of the bed, his hands clasped tightly together. He looks up, his expression unreadable. “Everything okay?” he asks, though he already knows the answer.

Cody sighs, running a hand through his damp hair. “Yeah, just… Kenny was worried. I didn’t tell him that I was leaving or where I was going last night.”

Roman’s jaw tightens, but he keeps his voice calm. “You didn’t tell him you were with me?”

“No,” Cody admits, avoiding Roman’s gaze. “I didn’t think he’d understand.”

“Understand what?” Roman presses, standing now, his voice low but firm. “That you called me? That you needed me? Or that you spent the night with me?”

Cody flinches at the words, but he doesn’t deny them. “It’s complicated,” he says finally.

“Complicated how?” Roman demands, taking a step closer. “Are you with him? Is that what this is?”

Cody hesitates, then nods. “Yes,” he says quietly. “I’m with Kenny.”

Roman feels like the ground has been ripped out from under him. He takes a step back, running a hand over his face as he tries to process what Cody’s just said. “Then why did you call me?” he asks, his voice pleading. “Why did you come here?”

Cody looks at him then, his eyes guilt, or maybe regret. “Because I needed to be with you,” he says simply. “Because I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

Roman shakes his head, frustration bubbling up inside him. “You can’t have it both ways, Cody,” he says sharply. 

“Hey,” Cody says firmly. “You broke up with me, Roman. Not the other way around. I never would have…” Cody stutters and starts again. “You can’t tell me you’ve been celibate for the last two years.” 

Roman ducks his head and rubs the back of his neck. “I know the choices I’ve made and have to live with,” he grumbles. “But okay no. I haven't been celibate. But I sure as hell haven’t been in a relationship.” 

Cody’s eyes flicker with hurt before he shifts his jaw. 

“You can’t be with him and still want me. Not after everything we’ve been through,” Roman lays down the ultimatum. Fair or not, this is where Roman is at.

“I know,” Cody admits, his voice breaking slightly. “But I don’t know how to let you go, Ro.”

Roman watches Cody’s face, the way his jaw tightens and his eyes glisten with tears. Roman’s chest still aches, but the anger is starting to ebb and all he wants to do is hold the man in front of him. 

“Come here,” Roman says finally, his voice low and gentle. He pats the space beside him on the bed, but Cody hesitates, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. Roman sighs, leaning forward slightly. “Cody, just… come here.”

Cody exhales sharply, his shoulders slumping as he finally moves toward the bed. He sits down stiffly, keeping a few inches of space between them. Roman doesn’t let that last long. He reaches out, his hand brushing against Cody’s arm before he pulls him closer, guiding him onto his lap. Cody gives in, his body melting into Roman’s as he settles against him.

“I’m sorry,” Roman murmurs, his lips brushing against Cody’s temple. “I shouldn’t have pushed you like that. I just… I don’t know how to do this. How to be around you and not want everything again.”

Cody lets out a shaky breath, his hands resting lightly on Roman’s shoulders. “I don’t know how to do it either,” he admits, his voice barely above a whisper. “Even after all this time, even with Kenny… I can’t stop. I don’t know how. You’re a part of me, Roman. You always have been.”

Roman’s heart clenches at the words, and he tightens his hold on Cody, pulling him even closer. His fingers trace idle patterns on Cody’s back, feeling the warmth of his skin through the thin fabric of his shirt. “Then why does it feel like we’re so far apart?” he asks quietly. “Why does it feel like we’re never going to get this right?”

Cody doesn’t answer right away. He leans his head against Roman’s shoulder, his breath warm against Roman’s neck. 

“Maybe we could try again,” Roman says after a while, his voice tentative. “Maybe we could figure it out this time. Make it work.”

Cody lifts his head, his eyes meeting Roman’s. There’s a flicker of hope in his gaze, but it’s quickly overshadowed by something that looks a lot like regret. “Roman…” he starts, his voice trailing off as he looks away.

“What?” Roman asks, his heart sinking. “What is it?”

Cody takes a deep breath, his hands tightening on Roman’s shoulders. “Kenny and I… we’re starting something new,” he says slowly. “Not just us, but he’s an important part. We’re teaming up with Matt and Nick—the Young Bucks—to launch our own promotion. We’ve got an investor with funds to back it up. It’s… it’s a big deal. It’s nearly a done deal. We’ve been working on it for months.”

Roman blinks, processing the words. He feels a surge of pride for Cody because he knows how much this means to him, how hard he’s worked to get to this point. But at the same time, there’s a sharp pang of disappointment. Because this changes things. It also means Cody really isn’t coming back to the WWE.

Isn’t coming back to him.

“That’s amazing,” Roman says finally, forcing a smile. “I’m really proud of you, Cody. You deserve this.”

Cody nods, but he doesn’t look happy. If anything, he looks more conflicted than ever. “It’s just… it’s going to take everything I have,” he says quietly. “All my time, all my energy. I’m being made an EVP. And Kenny is going to be there every step of the way, whether or not we’re together together.”

Roman feels a lump forming in his throat, but he swallows it down. He knows what Cody’s saying, even if he doesn’t want to admit it. “So that’s it then,” he says, his voice flat. “You’re choosing him.”

“It’s not about choosing him,” Cody says quickly, his eyes pleading with Roman to understand. “It’s about… it’s about me. About what I need to do for myself. This company… it’s my new dream, Roman. I could have never imagined this is where I’d end up when I left WWE, but it’s here and I have to take this opportunity. And I can’t let anything get in the way of that.”

Roman nods slowly, his chest aching with a pain that feels all too familiar. He wants to argue, to tell Cody that they can make it work, that they can find a way to balance everything. But deep down, he knows Cody’s right. They’ve been down this road before, and it didn’t end well.

Roman wasn’t enough for Cody then and he certainly isn’t enough now. 

“I get it,” Roman says finally, his voice quiet. “I do. But that doesn’t make it hurt any less.”

Cody’s eyes fill with tears, and he leans forward, pressing his forehead against Roman’s. “I never wanted to lose you,” he whispers. “But I don’t know how to keep you either.”

Roman closes his eyes, breathing in the familiar scent of Cody’s cologne and spearmint gum. It’s comforting and heartbreaking all at once. “Maybe we just… let each other go,” he says softly. “For once and for all. Holding on is unhealthy”

Cody lets out a choked sob, his hands gripping Roman’s shoulders tighter. “I don’t want to,” he says, his voice breaking.

Roman pulls him closer, holding him tightly as Cody’s tears soak into his shirt. He doesn’t say anything. They both know what has to happen, even if it hurts.

After a while, Cody pulls back slightly, his eyes red and swollen from crying. He looks at Roman, his gaze filled with a mix of love and sorrow. “I’ll always love you,” he says quietly. “No matter what happens.”

Roman nods, his throat too tight to speak. He reaches up, brushing a tear from Cody’s cheek with his thumb. “I’ll always love you too,” he whispers.

They sit there for a while longer, holding each other as the reality of their situation sinks in. It’s not the ending either of them wanted, but maybe it’s the one they need. Finally, Cody stands up, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand.

“I should go,” he says quietly.

Roman nods, standing up as well. He wants to ask Cody to stay, to beg him not to leave. But he doesn’t. Instead, he walks Cody to the door, his heart heavy with the weight of everything they’re leaving behind.

Cody pauses at the door, turning to look at Roman one last time. “Take care of yourself,” he says softly.

“You too,” Roman replies, his voice barely above a whisper.

Cody hesitates for a moment, like he wants to say something else. But then he just nods and turns away, stepping out into the hallway and closing the door behind him.

Roman stands there for a long time, staring at the closed door as the silence of the room presses in around him. He feels empty, like a part of him has been ripped away all over again.

He walks back to the bed and sits down heavily, running a hand over his face. His phone buzzes on the nightstand, but he ignores it. Right now, he just needs to be alone with his thoughts.

And as he sits there, staring at the wall, one thought keeps circling in his mind: What if we could have made it work?

And I wake with your memory over me
That's a real fucking legacy to leave

Chapter Text

April - July 2022

Cody leans back on the plush leather sofa of the borrowed tour bus where he’s been sequestered, his fingers drumming absently against the armrest. The hum of the air conditioning is faint, almost soothing, but it does little to quiet the storm in his mind. 

It’s all so much, and yet, here he is again. Back where it all began. Or fell apart, depending on how you look at it.

WrestleMania.The WWE. Worrying if the fans will welcome him back or reject him like AEW fans. Wondering if he’s as good as Seth Rollins at this stage in their careers. 

The countdown to WrestleMania feels like it’s moving in slow motion, each second stretching out longer than the last, giving him way too much time to anxiously think through his past, present, and future. His family had left him alone after he asked for some time to himself, and now the weight of the moment presses down on him.

He glances at his phone, tempted to call Matt or Nick, Adam, or hell… even Kenny at this point, but he stops himself. This isn’t their burden to carry. It’s his. He’s the one who walked away from AEW, who made the decision to return to the WWE stage after six years away. And now, he’s sitting here, alone, wondering if he’s made the second biggest mistake of his life.

He tips his head back, staring at the ceiling, trying to steady his breathing. This is it. His chance to prove himself all over again as this new, stronger version of himself. But even as he thinks about the impending match and all it means, his mind can’t help but drift to Roman. It’s been years since they last spoke, since that night in the hotel room when everything fell apart and his actual biggest mistake occurred when he walked away for good (or maybe it was a continuation of a larger mistake since they broke up the year prior). 

Cody hasn’t allowed himself to think about it much, but now, with the silence closing in, the memories come flooding back.

It’s quite difficult to think about Roman and not go immediately to the good times. The happiest times of his life if he’s being honest with himself. The neverending travel that never seemed too bad with Roman driving next to him. Their cozy Orlando home they lived and loved in, Pharaoh always by their sides. The warmth in his chest that only ever presented itself when Roman looked at him with light and adoration in his eyes. 

All of this ultimately leads him to remember how it all came crashing down. Dusty’s death. Stardust. The ever-present ache in his heart and feelings of inadequacy that wouldn’t leave until it forced him to quit his dream job. And quitting his dream job? Well that lost him his dream man. 

Cody will never regret leaving the WWE. It brought so much joy and adventure and exposure to the world. He met people and visited places he never could have dreamed of. Won championships at a number of promotions, rose to the top of the indie scene, and met a group of the best friends in the world who went out on a limb with him to build a promotion from the ground up. A promotion that, even if it turned out didn’t fully welcome him to stay, was well on its way to being a competitor with the WWE. So he can’t regret that and the mark he’s leaving on their industry.

But when the nights are cold and lonely, and he’s got no one next to him to distract from how empty he feels inside, he starts to wonder why it felt like he couldn’t have both. Why did he have to send his relationship up in flames to pursue his dreams? At the time he swore to himself it was impossible, but was it really? 

It’s not as though walking away either time got him any closer to happiness personally or romantically. The first year without Roman was a disaster of nights spent crying alone and an occasional drunken kiss that ended in regret. The second going into third year is when he met Kenny. Their instant connection felt warm and friendly, giving Cody a respite from the loneliness. Friendship turned into flirtation which turned into an exclusive situationship. 

… that very quickly went up in flames in the weeks following All In. For reasons Cody never had the courage to admit to Kenny. Roman wasn’t a subject any of the new friends in his life had much insight into. It felt too sacred to share with those that weren’t there to see it in live action. So he did the cowardly thing and let it fizzle out between hectic schedules and the creation of AEW, feigning that his focus was on his career. It may have been less than proper but it helped him maintain Kenny in his life as a friend.

In the middle of his reverie, the door of the bus creaks open, and Cody looks up, expecting his mom or sister sneaking back in. But it’s not either of them. 

It’s Roman. The very object of his trip down memory lane.

Cody freezes, his breath catching in his throat. Roman stands there, silhouetted against the dim light of the parking lot outside. He seems taller and more imposing than Cody remembers, his shoulders broader, his presence more commanding. The Head of the Table t-shirt he’s wearing clings to his chest, highlighting every ridge of muscle beneath. His handsome profile is exactly as Cody remembers, but there’s a different air about him now. 

An air that feels more guarded. Less welcoming. Bordering on cold. 

For a moment, neither of them moves. The space between them feels charged, like the calm before a storm. Then, without a word, Roman steps inside and closes the door behind him. The sound of it clicking shut echoes in the silence.

“Roman,” Cody says finally, his voice low and questioning. It’s the first time he’s said his name out loud in years, and it feels foreign on his tongue.

Roman doesn’t respond verbally. Instead, he crosses the space between them in a few strides and pulls Cody into a crushing hug. Cody stiffens at first, caught off guard by the suddenness of it. But then he relaxes, sinking into the warmth of Roman’s embrace. It’s familiar and achingly nostalgic, like coming home after a long journey.

Maybe his read on Roman being cold was completely off base. 

But then, just as quickly as it happens, Roman pulls away, his expression unreadable. “Sorry,” he mutters, taking a step back. “I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s fine,” Cody interrupts, forcing a small smile. He misses the warmth already, the way Roman’s arms had felt around him. But he can’t let himself dwell on it. “How did you know I was here?”

Roman grins slyly. “I have my ways of finding things out.”

Cody raises an eyebrow. “You’ve been keeping tabs on me?”

Roman shrugs, leaning against the edge of the dining table. “Maybe. Or maybe I just know you better than you think.”

“Or maybe I’m wrestling your best friend and he’s never been able to keep anything from you,” Cody softly teases.

Roman laughs and rubs the back of his neck, a gesture so familiar that Cody’s heart aches with how much it reminds him of home. 

“Why are you here, Roman?” he asks finally, his voice soft.

Roman hesitates, his gaze flickering to the floor. “I don’t know,” he admits. “I guess I just wanted to see you.”

Cody’s breath catches in his throat. He wasn’t expecting that. 

He wasn’t expecting any of this.

“It’s been a long time,” he says carefully.

“Too long,” Roman replies quietly.

They fall silent again, the weight of their history hanging between them. Cody can feel the heat of Roman’s body even though they’re not touching, and it’s making it hard to think straight. 

“You look good,” Roman says suddenly, breaking the silence.

Cody looks up, surprised. “So do you.”

Roman smirks again, but this time there’s a hint of something softer in his expression. “You always did know how to flatter me.”

Cody chuckles despite himself, the tension easing just a little. “Some things never change.”

Roman’s smile fades, and he looks at Cody with an intensity that makes his stomach flip. “A lot has changed, though.”

Cody nods slowly, his heart pounding in his chest. “Yeah. It has.”

They’re standing close now and Cody can smell the faint scent of Roman’s cologne, warm sandalwood and nostalgia that brings back a flood of memories. He wants to reach out, to close the distance between them, but he doesn’t know if he should.

“It’s really good to see you, Cody,” Roman says slowly, his voice barely audible.

Cody’s breath hitches, and he looks up at Roman, searching his face for any sign of hesitation or doubt. But all he sees is raw, unfiltered honesty.

“It’s really good to see you too, Roman,” he shakily admits.

For a moment, neither of them moves. Then, slowly, Roman reaches out and brushes his thumb down the side of Cody’s face, his fingers lingering against his cheek. Cody closes his eyes, leaning into the touch, and for a second, it feels like they’re back in 2013 when they were happy and in love, like nothing has changed.

But then Roman pulls his hand away as though his fingers have been burned by the action, and the moment is gone.

“I should go,” he says, his voice rough. “You’ve got a match to prepare for.”

Cody nods, though every part of him wants to tell Roman to stay. “Yeah. I do.”

Roman takes a step back, his expression unreadable once again. “Good luck out there.”

“Thanks,” Cody says softly. “And good luck tomorrow night.”

Roman hesitates for a moment, like he wants to say something else, but then he turns and walks toward the door. Cody watches him go, his heart aching with a mix of emotions he doesn’t want to untangle.

Just as Roman reaches the door, he stops and looks back over his shoulder. “Cody?”

“Yeah?”

Roman’s gaze is intense, almost piercing. “Don’t forget who you are out there. You’ve always been enough.”

Cody swallows hard, nodding. “I won’t.”

And with that, he’s gone, leaving Cody alone once more.

Cody sinks back onto the couch, his heart pounding in his chest. He runs a hand through his hair, letting out a frustrated sigh. He knows he should focus on the match tonight, on proving he belongs back in the WWE. But right now, all he can think about is Roman. The way he’d looked at him, the way he’d held him, if only for a moment.

“What are you doing?” he mutters to himself, closing his eyes. “Why can’t you move past this?”

But deep down, he knows he never will. Roman has always been a part of him, a piece of his heart that remains stubbornly bent but unbroken. Seeing him again only reinforces that.

Cody shakes his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He needs to focus. 

But as he sits there in the quiet of the bus, one thought keeps circling in his mind: it’s far from over.

You know it ain't easy
For these thoughts here to leave me
There are no words to describe it

Cody sits on the couch, Pharaoh sprawled lazily across his lap, the husky’s thick fur warm against his fingers combatting the chill of the much-needed air conditioning. It’s July in Atlanta and the summer has been sweltering. The TV hums softly in the background, some rerun of Star Trek he’s seen a hundred times before. His healing pec aches faintly, a reminder of the Hell in a Cell match he barely survived and the dumbass decision to bench over 200 pounds with no stretching or preparation. The surgery and rehab have been grueling, but he’s determined to come back stronger than ever. Still, the quiet moments like this are rare, and he’s learned to savor them.

Just as his head starts to loll to the side in an attempt to nap, the doorbell rings, startling both boys. The husky leaps off the couch, barking excitedly as Cody groans, pushing himself up carefully to avoid straining his injury. He shuffles to the door, peeking through the peephole. His breath catches.

Roman stands on the other side, dressed casually, his face framed by the soft glow of the porch light. His expression is unreadable, but there’s a tension in his shoulders that Cody recognizes immediately. Roman looks… uncertain. 

And absolutely breathtaking.

Cody hesitates, his hand hovering over the doorknob. Why is he here? The question echoes in his mind, but he doesn’t let himself dwell on it too long before he opens the door.

“Roman,” Cody says, voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside him. “What are you doing here?”

Roman shifts slightly, his dark eyes scanning Cody’s face. “Just thought I’d check in,” he says, his tone casual but with an underlying edge Cody can’t quite place. “Heard about the pec. Then I watched the match. Figured you might need some company.”

Cody raises an eyebrow, leaning against the doorframe. “Company, huh? You sure that’s all this is?”

Roman smirks, that same cocky grin that always manages to set Cody on edge. “What, I can’t just want to see how you’re doing?”

Pharaoh doesn’t wait for an invitation before either one of them can speak further. He launches himself at Roman, paws scrabbling against his thighs, his entire body wriggling with excitement. A startled laugh escapes Roman as he crouches, letting the dog lick his face, his hands burying in Pharaoh’s fur like he's afraid this moment will disappear.

“Missed me, huh?” Roman murmurs, scratching behind Pharaoh’s ears. The dog whines, pressing closer, tail wagging so hard his whole body shakes. Roman bends his head and closes his eyes, but Cody doesn’t miss the tears that started to gather and Roman swallowing against the lump in his throat.

Cody watches the scene unfold, his chest tightening. It’s been years since Roman last saw Pharaoh, but the canine remembers him like it was yesterday. The scene is painfully nostalgic and makes Cody ache for what they used to have. The late nights traveling together from town to town, Pharaoh curled up in the backseat as they talked about everything and nothing, singing to cheesy rock ballads. The way Roman’s laugh used to fill their shared home, warm and unguarded in a way he no longer seems to be.

Roman straightens slowly, his eyes lifting to meet Cody’s again. He clears his throat and Pharaoh leans against his leg, panting, as if he’s afraid Roman might disappear.

“You look good,” Roman says, his voice quieter now.

Cody huffs a laugh, gesturing to his bandaged chest. “Liar.”

Roman’s mouth quirks. “Still standing, aren’t you?”

“Barely.”

A beat of silence. Pharaoh nudges Roman’s hand, demanding more attention, and Roman obliges absently, his fingers stroking through the husky’s fur. But his gaze never leaves Cody.

The silence that follows is heavy, charged with words neither of them seems willing to say. Roman steps closer, his presence filling the entryway. Cody doesn’t move, doesn’t back away. He’s not sure he could even if he wanted to.

“Why are you really here, Roman?” Cody murmurs.

Roman’s gaze doesn’t waver. “I told you. To check on you.”

Cody shakes his head. “You could’ve called. Texted. You didn’t have to come all the way to Atlanta.”

Roman takes another step, close enough now that Cody can feel the heat radiating off him. His hand brushes against Cody’s arm, the touch light but deliberate. “Maybe I wanted to see you,” he says, his voice dropping to a husky murmur. “Maybe I needed to.”

Cody’s breath stutters, his heart pounding in his chest. He should step back, should put some distance between them. But he can't find the will to do so. Roman’s presence is magnetic, pulling him in like a moth to a flame, every single time.

“Roman…” Cody starts, but the words die on his lips. Roman’s hand slides up to cup his face, his thumb brushing against Cody’s cheek, mirroring the same action he made back in April. The touch is achingly familiar, a reminder of countless nights they’d spent together, tangled up in each other.

“I’ve missed you,” Roman murmurs, his voice rough with emotion. “More than I thought I could miss someone.”

Cody’s eyes flutter shut, his body leaning into Roman’s touch despite himself. “I missed you too, Ro,” he whispers. “So damn much.” 

The air between them crackles with tension, thick and electric. Cody’s mind races, his heart pounding. He's torn between wanting to wrap himself around the man he still believes to be the love of his life and logically knowing they shouldn’t travel down this path again.

So he takes a deep breath and steps back just enough to clear his mind. Smiling shyly, he gestures behind him. “Let’s go sit in the living room.”

These feelings won't go away
They've been knockin' me sideways

Cody motions for Roman to follow him into the living room, the dim light from the hallway casting long shadows across the floor. Roman takes a seat on the couch, his expression unreadable but focused. Cody sits beside him, close enough to feel the heat radiating from Roman’s body, but not close enough to touch. The space between them helps wring out the tension from just moments before.

They talk, hesitantly at first, about the last four years. Wrestling, life, the things they’ve missed. Cody mentions his injury, the surgery, the long road to recovery. It’s mostly surface level, both men afraid to get too close but Roman listens intently, his sharp gaze never wavering from Cody’s face. He looks different, Cody thinks. There’s a hardness to him now, a shield he didn’t have before. It’s the Tribal Chief persona bleeding through, but Cody can tell it’s more than that. Roman is guarded, holding something back.

“I’ve followed your career,” Roman admits after a while, his voice low and measured. “You’ve done well for yourself.”

Cody chuckles, though it feels forced. “So have you. You’re the guy now. The Head of the Table.”

Roman smiles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. “It’s just a character, Cody. You know that.”

“Do I?” Cody counters, leaning forward slightly. “Because you’re sitting here like you’re still in the ring. Like you’re trying to prove something.”

Roman’s jaw tightens, and for a moment, Cody thinks he’s pushed too far. Then Roman exhales, his shoulders relaxing just a fraction. “Maybe I am,” he admits quietly. “But so are you.”

Cody doesn’t respond. He can’t. Because he knows Roman is right. They’re both playing roles, even here, even now. But the tension between them is real, too real to ignore. Cody’s eyes flicker to Roman’s lips, then away, but it’s too late. Roman has seen it.

In one swift movement, as though acting strictly on impulse, Roman closes the distance between them, his hand cupping Cody’s cheek as he presses their lips together. The kiss is soft at first, tentative, like they’re both testing the waters. But then Cody leans into it, his hand slipping around Roman’s neck, and suddenly it’s anything but gentle.

Their mouths move together urgently, each kiss deeper than the last. Roman’s other hand finds its way to Cody’s waist, pulling him closer until their bodies are pressed together. Cody can feel the heat of Roman’s skin through his shirt, the way his muscles ripple under his touch. It’s overwhelming, intoxicating, and everything he’s needed in his life for the last four years.

Roman breaks the kiss long enough to pull his shirt over his head, tossing it aside. Cody attempts to carefully remove his own shirt, but winces slightly as the movement jostles his injured pec. Roman notices immediately, his hands stilling on Cody’s chest.

“You okay?” he asks, his voice rough with concern.

Cody nods quickly, not wanting the moment to end. “I’m fine,” he insists, pulling Roman back in. “Help me out?”

This time, there’s no hesitation. Roman’s hands immediately begin unbuttoning the offending garment and delicately slips it from his shoulders. Once his skin is bare, Roman’s hands glide over Cody’s body, tracing the contours of his muscles with a reverence that makes Cody shiver. 

Roman leans back slightly then, his eyes refocusing directly on Cody’s bare chest. His gaze lingers on the bandages wrapped around Cody’s injury, and for a moment, he hesitates.

“Does it hurt?” Roman asks, his voice rough with concern.

Cody shakes his head quickly. “No, I’m fine. Don’t stop.”

But Roman doesn’t look convinced. His hands hover over the bandages as if afraid to touch them. “I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t,” Cody insists, grabbing Roman’s wrist and guiding his hand back to the good side of his chest. “I trust you.”

And whatever it is that Cody said or how he looked at Roman, it must be enough because Roman immediately moves back in to reward Cody with several more slow, languid kisses that steal the thoughts from his brain. 

After several moments of refamiliarizing themselves  with each other’s taste, Roman pulls back slightly, his eyes searching Cody’s face as if he’s trying to memorize every detail. “Do you know how hard it was to let you go?” he asks, his voice cracking. “To walk away from you?”

Cody shakes his head, his throat tight. “Then why did you?”

Roman’s expression falters, and for a moment, he looks vulnerable. “Because I couldn’t let myself be the reason you didn’t fulfill your dreams,” he says quietly. “You deserved to have everything you wanted.”

Cody’s chest aches at the words. He reaches up, brushing his fingers against Roman’s cheek. “I didn’t want to hurt you,” he whispers. “God, Roman, I never wanted that.”

That seems to break whatever restraint Roman was holding onto. He surges forward, capturing Cody’s lips in another searing kiss as his hands explore every inch of Cody’s body. They move together in a frenzy of hands and lips and teeth, each touch sparking flames that neither of them can ignore. His lips trail down Cody’s neck, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. Cody arches into the touch, the fingers of his good hand tangling in Roman’s hair as he pulls him closer still.

But then Roman shifts, and Cody lets out a sharp yelp as pain shoots through his chest. Roman pulls back instantly, his face a mask of concern.

“Cody…” he starts, but Cody cuts him off.

“I’m fine,” Cody repeats, though his voice is strained. “Really.”

“Cody,” Roman rasps, his voice barely audible. “We can’t—”

“Don’t say it,” Cody interrupts, his voice pleading.

Roman hesitates, his hand still tangled in Cody’s hair. For a moment, Cody thinks he might give in, might pull him back into another kiss and let everything else fall away. But instead, Roman pulls back completely, his expression torn.

“I’m sorry,” Roman says quietly, standing up and running a hand through his hair. “I shouldn’t have come here. Shouldn’t have kissed you. I know better, I can’t ever resist…” he pauses and breathes before starting again. “I’m so sorry, Cody. I just… Take care of yourself, okay? Get better.”

“What?! Roman,” Cody protests and quickly stands, reaching for him. “Don’t go.”

Roman hesitates, his eyes searching Cody’s face. For a moment, Cody thinks he might stay. But then Roman exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair again. “I can’t be broken by us again,” he says quietly. 

Cody feels his chest tighten, but he pushes past it. “We’re not breaking each other,” he insists. “We’re fixing something that’s been broken for too long.”

Roman shakes his head again, his expression pained. “I don’t know if we can,” he admits. “And I can’t… I can’t risk it. Not again, Cody.”

The words hit Cody like a punch to the gut. He wants to argue, to tell Roman that it’s different now, that they’re different. But the look in Roman’s eyes stops him cold. There’s so much pain there, so much regret.

Roman pauses briefly, turning back to look at Cody one last time. “Take care of yourself,” he says softly. “I mean it.”

“Roman,” Cody calls out, his voice cracking with desperation as he moves too quickly, pain flaring in his chest again. “Wait—”

And then he’s gone, the sound of the door closing echoing in the silence that follows. Pharaoh's sharp whining sounds like an echo as reality descends upon Cody. 

The room feels colder without him, emptier somehow. Yet as Cody sits down and sinks back onto the couch, clutching his injured chest and staring toward the closed door, one thought keeps repeating in his mind: He still loves me.

Cody sits there for what feels like an eternity, his chest aching in more ways than one. But amidst the pain, there’s a spark of hope. Because for the first time in years, he knows that Roman hasn’t moved on either.

He just doesn’t know what to do with that knowledge now that Roman has walked away yet again. 

I'm telling you
Diamonds they fade
Flowers they bloom

Chapter Text

January - October 2023 

Roman feels like his nerves are a live wire as he paces the spacious hotel suite in San Antonio. It’s not uncommon for him to feel an intense high after competing in a grueling match, especially one that reflects such an important story as the one he’s telling with Sami, Kevin, and the Usos. After the emotional bout, all 4 men in the Bloodline had gathered backstage hugging and congratulating each other on a job well done as KO watched on with a small grin. 

So that alone could have been enough to keep him wired, but it’s obvious to Roman what has him so amped tonight and avoiding sleep: Cody. 

Isn’t it always Cody Rhodes? 

Watching the former love of his life return triumphantly from injury to take the stadium by storm and win the entire Rumble handily was something he wasn’t emotionally prepared for. While mentally prepped by Hunter and Heyman on who his Wrestlemania opponent would be and the impending storylines with Sami, then Cody, he should have had time to let the news settle in. But as is often the case when it comes to the blue eyed blonde, no amount of advance notice is ever enough to deal with the reality of that man and his affect on Roman’s nervous system.

Deciding to put his energy to good use, Roman tries to get a head start on packing for tomorrow’s early departure. His fingers linger on the zipper of his suitcase, his mind unable to focus on the task and quit replaying Cody standing excitedly on the turnbuckle as he pointed at the Wrestlemania sign. The crowd’s roar echoes in his ears, but louder than that is the vision of Cody’s smile as he stood in the ring, arms raised, looking every bit the champion he was always meant to be. Roman feels a pang of pride, regret, and longing so deep his bones ache. He shakes his head, trying to clear it, but the emotions cling to him like a second skin.

He’s halfway through folding a shirt when the knock comes. It’s soft, tentative, almost as if the person on the other side isn’t sure they should be here. Roman’s heart skips a beat before he even opens the door, because somehow he already knows who it is.

No amount of time, distance, or tension is able to slice through the red string of fate tying them together.

Cody stands there, holding a bottle of wine in one hand and wearing a smile that could light up the darkest room. His expression is warm, genuine, but there’s a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. “Hey,” Cody says, his voice steady but quiet. “Thought we could… talk.”

For a moment, Roman just stares at him. Seven months. It’s been seven months since he walked out of Cody’s house, since he told himself that staying away was the right thing to do before he fled from that couch and Cody’s lips like his skin was on fire. But here Cody is, standing in his doorway with their favorite bottle of Cab that he knows will taste like cozy winter nights in front of a fire and a hint of home, acting as though last year never happened. Looking for all the world like happiness and light and so goddamn handsome in his casual attire that Roman’s body never had a chance of remaining unaffected.

“Yeah, sure. Come in,” Roman says finally, stepping aside to let him through. His voice sounds rougher than he means it to, but Cody doesn’t seem to notice. He walks past Roman, his shoulder brushing against his in the tight space, and the contact sends a jolt through Roman.

Cody sets the wine down on the small table by the window, then turns to face him. “You watch the Rumble before your match?”

“Yeah,” Roman admits, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. “Congrats, Cody. You looked good. Really good.”

Cody chuckles softly, running a hand through his hair. “Felt good too. I wasn’t sure how it’d go after the injury, but I guess I’m back.” His eyes meet Roman’s. “Thanks for… you know. Watching. The compliment. It means a lot.”

The words catch Roman off guard. “Of course,” Roman says quietly. “You deserve it.”

They fall into silence again, the air between them thick with the unresolved tension that’s been lingering since Cody returned to the WWE last April. Cody shifts from foot to foot, his usual confidence replaced by an awkwardness that feels foreign on him. Finally, he gestures to the bottle of wine. “Should we open this?”

Roman nods, grabbing a couple of glasses from the minibar while Cody uncorks the bottle. The sound of the cork popping seems to break some of the tension, and they both sit down on opposite sides of the small couch.

“So,” Cody starts after taking a sip, “Wrestlemania.”

Roman exhales sharply, setting his glass down on the table. “Yeah. Wrestlemania.”

“Guess we’re finally doing this, huh?” Cody’s tone is light, trying to keep things surface-level.

“Guess so,” Roman replies, his gaze fixed on the floor. “It’s gonna be interesting.”

Cody laughs, the noise tinged with nervous energy. “‘Interesting’ is one way to put it. I mean, it’s us. It’s… complicated.”

“Complicated,” Roman echoes, his voice low. He looks up at Cody then, his eyes searching his face. “Is that what we are?”

Cody hesitates, swirling the wine in his glass. “I don’t know,” he admits. “What do you think?”

Roman doesn’t answer right away. Instead, he leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he studies Cody. What do I think? The question hangs in the stillness of the room. What does he think? That Cody is the only person who’s ever truly understood him? That every time they’re together, it feels like coming home? That walking away from him for the umpteenth time last year in Atlanta was the hardest fucking thing he’s ever done? That walking away from Cody never gets easier, but devastatingly harder?

“I think that this was bound to happen. You and I on this collision course for a main event match on the grandest stage,” Roman starts. He takes a deep breath and a swig of wine before continuing. “But last time we saw each other, things didn’t go so well. I know that I… well. Cody. Why are you here now?”

“Now…” Cody takes a deep breath, looking thoughtful. “Now I realize that no matter what happens between us, you’re still important to me. Always will be. I don’t want this storyline to be awkward or painful. I want us to be able to work together without all this tension.”

Roman laughs but there’s no humor in it. “Tension? Cody, you’re sitting in my hotel room at midnight looking like that,” he gestures vaguely at Cody’s body, “and you think we can just pretend there’s no tension?”

Cody’s cheeks flush, but he doesn’t back down. “I’m not saying it’s easy. I’m just saying we should try. For our careers, if nothing else.”

Roman’s chest tightens at Cody’s words, at the way Cody’s eyes search his face like he’s looking for answers Roman isn’t sure he has. “Cody…”

But Roman finds he has nothing to say, all he can do in this moment is feel. He’s so weak to this man. So instead he reaches out, his hand brushing against Cody’s knee. The contact sends a spark through him, and he can see the way Cody’s body reacts too; his breath quickens, his eyes darken with want and pure desire.

“This is a bad idea,” Roman murmurs, though he doesn’t pull away.

“Probably,” Cody agrees, but he’s leaning in now, their faces so close that Roman can feel the warmth of his breath. “But when have we ever not followed through on a bad idea?”

Roman lets out a shaky laugh, his hand sliding up Cody’s leg without conscious thought. “True.”

Their lips meet then, and it’s softer than either of them expects. It’s not like the urgent, desperate kisses they shared months ago; this one is slow, tentative, like they’re testing the waters. Roman’s hand reaches up to cup Cody’s cheek, his thumb brushing against the smooth skin of his jaw as their lips move together in a rhythm that is as familiar as breathing.

When they finally pull away, Cody rests his forehead against Roman’s, his breathing uneven. “We should probably stop,” he says, though the way his fingers grip Roman’s shirt suggests otherwise.

“Probably,” Roman replies, his voice rough. But neither of them moves. 

Cody pulls away first, his fingers still gripping Roman’s shirt as if he’s reluctant to let go. "We should take a walk," he says, his voice low but firm. "Get some air. Clear our heads somewhere without a bed present."

Roman nods, though his eyes linger on Cody’s face, tracing the familiar lines of his jaw, the way his lips are still slightly parted from their kiss. "Yeah," he agrees. "Fresh air sounds good."

Tried to keep you close to me
But life got in between

They step outside into the cool night air with their hoods pulled low. The tension is still there, but the change of scenery offers a momentary escape. Roman zips up his jacket and they start walking side by side without a destination in mind.

For a while, neither of them speaks. Roman can’t help but notice how close Cody is walking to him, their shoulders almost brushing with each step. He wants to reach out and bridge that small gap, but he doesn’t. Instead, he shoves his hands into his pockets and keeps his gaze forward.

"Cody," Roman finally breaks the silence, his voice steady but soft. "We can’t keep doing this to each other."

Cody glances at him, his expression unreadable. "You think I don’t know that? You think I don’t know that every time we’re together, it’s like we’re playing with fire?" His voice rises slightly, frustration bleeding through. "But it’s not that simple, Roman. It never has been."

"Maybe we should just be friends," Roman suggests, though the words taste bitter on his tongue. "For real this time. No kissing, no touching, none of this back-and-forth. Just... friends."

Cody lets out a humorless laugh, shaking his head. "Friends? Roman, we’ve never been just friends. Even before we were together, it was always more than that."

"I know," Roman says quietly. "But maybe it’s time we tried. Maybe that’s the only way we can figure this out without destroying each other."

Cody looks at him then, his eyes searching Roman’s face for validation, maybe, or understanding. After a long moment, he sighs and nods reluctantly. "Fine. Friends. But don’t expect me to just turn off how I feel about you."

"I wouldn’t ask you to," Roman replies, his voice softening. "And you don’t have to pretend like you’re not the most important person in my life."

The admission hangs in the air between them. Cody opens his mouth as if to say something, but then closes it again, shaking his head slightly. "This is such a mess," he mutters, half to himself.

"Yeah," Roman agrees tiredly.

They start walking again, the silence between them less tense this time, more contemplative. The streets are quiet now, the night stretching out before them like a blank slate. Roman glances at Cody out of the corner of his eye, watching the way his profile catches the moonlight, and he feels that familiar pull in his chest that always brings him back to the beautiful man walking next to him, no matter how hard he tries to resist it.

Eventually, they reach a small park, the kind of place where kids play during the day but is eerily empty at night. Cody stops and leans against the fence, crossing his arms over his chest. "You ever think about what would’ve happened if things were different? If we tried harder to make it work?" he asks suddenly, his voice breaking the stillness.

Roman hesitates for a moment before answering. "All the time," he admits. "But I don’t know if it helps to think about it."

Cody nods slowly, his gaze fixed on some point in the distance. "Me neither. But sometimes I can’t help it."

They fall silent again as they glance at each other sharing another look full of acknowledgement. 

Finally Cody sighs and shakes his head. “Alright. Let’s do it your way. Friends?” He questions, reaching out a hand.

Roman looks at the hand being offered to him and imagines another world, another time where he’d pull that hand into him and take Cody back into his arms for a sweeping kiss. 

But it’s time to get off the merry go round.

Firmly gripping the younger man’s hand, Roman gruffly clears his throat and shakes. “Friends.” 

This is all going to blow up spectacularly, Roman thinks. 

Once upon a different life
We rode our bikes into the sky

Cody lays in bed, the soft glow of the TV casting shadows across the room. Pharaoh sprawls at his feet, his deep, rhythmic snoring blending with the low hum of the broadcast. On the screen, Roman stands tall in the center of the ring, the new unified championship belt gleaming under the arena lights. The crowd roars, their chants of support or boos echoing through Cody’s speakers. He watches as Roman spits out his signature “acknowledge me” line, the celebration in full swing before the Usos’ music hits and the next arc of the storyline begins. 

A smile tugs at Cody’s lips despite the heaviness in his chest. One thousand days. It’s an incredible milestone, one that cements Roman as one of the greatest champions in WWE history.

It’s a feat Cody always felt Roman was destined for: greatness, championship gold, domination in the ring, beautiful storytelling. No matter how much Roman didn’t see it in himself, Cody always has.

But as he watches Roman soak in the moment, a bittersweet pang slices through Cody. He shouldn’t be watching this. He shouldn’t be torturing himself like this. Yet here he is, unable to look away. He looks so good, Cody thinks, his eyes tracing the lines of Roman’s face, the confidence radiating from every inch of him. It’s an awful feeling, knowing he could’ve—should’ve—been there, standing beside him, sharing in this moment. The rest of the segment goes on but Cody can barely focus. He’s trapped thinking about all the missteps he and Roman have taken over the past decade. 

The most recent being their misguided attempt to be friends. It lasted all of two weeks before Roman turned avoidant and shut down around him, refusing to be in any room alone with Cody. Any planning of matches or promos on the road to Wrestlemania had to include at least Heyman, if not several other producers. Cody had attempted to start friendly conversations with Roman, but everything was kept surface level.

And really, Cody supposes he can’t be too upset. They agreed to be friends, not besties who gossip in hallways and share their days together. And both men knew a friendship between former lovers with chemistry as intense as theirs was foolish. But being in close proximity to Roman and not getting to have the piece of him he used to was a hellish nightmare.

So by the time their main event came around and Cody and Roman got to wrestle each other for the first time in a decade, the mental exhaustion weighed too heavily on Cody and afterwards he tried one last time to mend things between them. A shot in the dark. But Roman made it clear that the door was closed. And Cody walked away with a scripted loss and an even bigger offscreen heartbreak. 

It’s all suddenly too much. Cody lets out a large sigh and wipes at his tired eyes. Pharaoh shifts, his blue eyes blinking open as if sensing Cody’s unrest. “I’m fine, buddy,” Cody murmurs, scratching behind the dog’s ears. But he’s not fine. Not even close.

He shuts off the TV, the room plunging into darkness, but the image lingers in his mind of the same man from a very different time. A time when Roman’s smile, his voice, the way he looked at Cody like he was the only person in the world, like he was everything to him. 

It’s after midnight when his phone buzzes on the nightstand, snapping him out of his incessant tossing and turning. He glances at the screen and his heart skips a beat when he sees the name flashing across it is Roman’s. Cody hesitates for a moment before answering, his voice cautious. “Hey.”

“Cody.” Roman’s voice is low, slightly slurred, and Cody doesn’t need to see him to know he’s been drinking. “You watch tonight?”

“Yeah,” Cody admits, leaning back against the headboard. “Caught the celebration. Congrats, Roman. One thousand days is an incredible achievement.”

Roman chuckles, but it’s a hollow sound. “Thanks. Feels... weird, you know? Like, I should be happy, right? But it's just...” His voice trails off, and Cody can practically hear him running a hand through his hair. “It doesn’t feel the same without you.”

Cody’s breath catches. He wasn’t expecting that. “Roman, you’ve been drinking. You don’t mean that.”

“I do.” Roman’s voice cracks, and for a moment, he sounds so raw, so vulnerable, that it takes everything in Cody not to reach through the phone and pull him close. “I don’t know how to do any of this without you, Cody. None of it matters if you’re not here.”

Cody closes his eyes, pressing the heel of his hand to his forehead. This isn’t fair. Roman doesn’t get to do this, not after everything they’ve been through. Claiming to attempt being friends to get through the storyline. Then the Wrestlemania match and the insistent wall Roman puts between them, the awkward distance these past months. “Roman, you don’t—”

“I love you.” The words cut through the silence like a knife, sharp and unrelenting. Cody’s eyes snap open, his heart pounding in his chest as he audibly gasps. Roman continues, his voice quieter now but no less intense. “I’ve never loved anyone else. Not ever. It’s always been you. And I don’t know how to turn it off. I don’t think I can.”

Cody’s throat feels tight, his hands trembling as he grips the phone. “Roman, you’re drunk,” he repeats, though it sounds weak even to his own ears. “You don’t know what you’re saying right now.”

“I know exactly what I’m saying,” Roman insists, his tone firmer now. “I’ve been avoiding you because I thought it would make it easier; because I thought if I stayed away, I could forget how much I need you. But I can’t. Having that celebration tonight... all I could think about was how much I wanted you there with me. That you should have been there. How much I just want you with me always.”

Cody’s chest aches with the weight of Roman’s words. He wants to believe them, wants to let himself fall into the warmth of Roman’s confession. But there’s still so much history and pain standing between them. “Roman, we can’t…”

“Just tell me you don’t feel the same way,” Roman interrupts, his voice trembling now. “Tell me you don’t love me too, and I’ll never bring it up again.”

Cody opens his mouth to respond, but the words stick in his throat. He can’t say it. He can’t lie to Roman, not when every fiber of his being screams that he feels it too, that he always has. “Ro...”

“That’s what I thought,” Roman whispers, and there’s a hint of triumph in his voice now. “You can’t say it because it’s the truth. You still love me too.”

Cody doesn’t deny it, couldn’t even if he wanted to. Instead, he lets out a shaky breath and runs a hand through his hair. “What do you want from me, Ro? What do you expect me to do?”

There’s a long pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment, Cody wonders if Roman hung up. But then he hears him exhale softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know. But I need you to know how I feel. I can’t keep pretending this isn’t tearing me apart.”

Cody swallows hard, his mind racing. He doesn’t know what to say, doesn’t know how to fix this. But one thing is clear: neither of them can keep going like this. “Roman,” he says quietly, his voice steadier now. “You’re the one who keeps walking away. Every single time.”

Roman’s quiet for a moment before responding, his voice hoarse. “I know, I do, Cody. But you walked away first, Cody. Twice. I know why you had to leave and I am so glad you lived out your dreams. But I was broken, Cody. Losing you… it changed me.” 

Tears fill Cody’s eyes. He knows. And he isn’t resentful that Roman is bringing this up. It’s all true and they’ve both made mistakes. 

Cody closes his eyes, pressing the heel of his hand against his forehead. “Roman, listen to yourself… Now isn’t the right time to discuss this. Let’s talk about this tomorrow, okay?”

“No tomorrows,” Roman mumbles, his voice fading. “Too many tomorrows without you already.”

Cody feels his resolve wavering, but he knows better than to let himself fall into this again. “Every time we get close, you pull back. I can’t keep going through this.”

“What if I don’t want to pull back this time?” Roman murmurs.“What if I want to stop running?”

Cody’s breath catches. He wants to believe him, wants to let himself hope that maybe this time will be different. But the thought of getting hurt again is terrifying. “You don’t mean that.”

“I do,” Roman insists. “I’ve been thinking about it ever since Wrestlemania. Watching you walk away that night… it broke something in me, Cody. I don’t want to lose you.”

Pharaoh shifts on the bed, pressing his warm body against Cody’s leg as if sensing his unease. Cody runs a hand through his hair, trying to steady himself. “You’re not making this easy.”

“I don’t want it to be easy,” Roman says quietly. “I want it to be real.”

Cody closes his eyes again, letting Roman’s words sink in. He’s spent so long trying to protect himself, trying to keep his distance from someone who has always had the power to break his heart. But hearing Roman like this—vulnerable and honest—it’s impossible not to want to give in.

“What do you want from me, Roman?” he asks finally, his voice barely above a whisper.

Several moments go by without a response and Cody furrows his brows. “Roman?” 

When no response comes at the question, Cody presses his ear closer and hears soft, rhythmic breathing that he recognizes all too well as Roman sleeping. Not knowing whether to be annoyed or hopeful that the conversation even happened at all, Cody sighs heavily. “Goodnight, Ro,” he murmurs before ending the call. 

He sets the phone down on the nightstand and leans back against the pillows, his mind spinning. All he can think about is the way Roman’s voice broke when he said “I love you,” the raw honesty in his words, the way it felt like they were finally breaking down a wall that had been standing between them for far too long.

He knows they can’t keep avoiding this and that sooner or later, they’ll have to face their past, present, and future head-on and with finality. And after what Roman just revealed? Cody dares to let himself hope, once again, that maybe things with them aren’t done. Maybe they can find a way back to each other.

—

The morning air feels heavy as Cody wakes, the weight of Roman’s confession invading his mind upon waking. He reaches for his phone on the nightstand, the screen lighting up with Roman’s name and a single message: So sorry about last night. Had one too many. Forget I said anything. Cody stares at the words, his chest tightening. 

He picks up the phone, thumbs hovering over the keyboard. What does he even say? That he can’t just forget? That Roman’s drunken admission gave him hope he hasn’t felt in a long time? 

He spends the rest of the morning in a haze, trying to distract himself with mundane tasks. By midday, he’s cleaned the kitchen twice and taken Pharaoh for an extra-long walk, but Roman’s words keep echoing in his head. It's always been you.

As the sun begins to set, Cody finds himself scrolling through old photos on his phone. There’s one of him and Roman after a house show years ago, both of them sweaty and exhausted but laughing like they didn’t have a care in the world. Roman’s arm is draped over his shoulders, their faces inches apart. Cody’s heart aches as he zooms in on Roman’s smile, that infectious grin that always made it impossible to stay mad at him.

But not anymore. Roman has played with his heart one too many times and the anger is rising in his throat. He refuses to let this keep happening.

But now we crawl against the tide
Those distant days are flashing by

The locker room is quiet, the muffled noise of the crowd outside barely seeping through the thick walls. Roman paces as he runs a hand over his face. He’s nervous, a feeling he isn’t used to anymore. The weight of the segment they just filmed hangs heavy in the air—the way Cody had stared him down, tag belts around his waist, eyes burning with… what? Anger? Longing? Resentment? 

Maybe all three.

Roman dialed it in after to watch the main event match and then film his required segment afterward, but his mind kept drifting back to Cody when he was supposed to be paying attention to his queue to run out and spear LA Knight. Tonight marked the first time he’d seen Cody since the Raw after Wrestlemania. Since he’d reneged on his agreement to try to be friends. 

Friends. That word still leaves a bittersweet taste in his mouth. Roman had tried, he really had. He’d been friendly, asked Cody how he was doing, tried to engage in casual camaraderie. But every time he caught a flash of blonde hair and blue eyes, every time he got a whiff of that familiar cologne that once drifted throughout their happy home, or Cody shot that charming smile at him it sent his heart racing. 

Friends was never realistic. So he pulled a wildly Tribal Chief-like move and avoided his problems by always having someone interfere at any time he and Cody were required to be in close proximity.

But the ice cold blue in Cody’s eyes tonight as they stared each other down in the arena felt more personal than just the characters they play onscreen having a tense stare down for the first time since Wrestlemania. It felt real, it felt… personal. In a desperate moment, Roman caught Cody backstage and pleaded with him to meet him in his locker room after the show. 

He tried to ignore how much Cody’s reluctance hurt, and instead focused on the “yes” to his request and remained hopeful that they could have an open conversation. 

But now as the door creaks open, Roman stops mid-step. Cody stands in the doorway, his shoulders tense, arms crossed over his chest. He doesn’t step all the way in, just lingers there like he’s not sure if he should stay or go.

“You wanted to talk,” Cody says, his voice flat, void of the usual warmth Roman relishes.

Roman swallows hard, nodding. “Yeah. I—I wanted to apologize.” He takes a step forward, but Cody holds up a hand, stopping him in his tracks.

“Don’t,” Cody says, cutting him off sharply. “Don’t start with that again, Roman. I refuse to do this back-and-forth anymore.”

Roman opens his mouth to argue, but Cody steps inside, shutting the door behind him. The click of the latch feels final, like a door closing on something Roman isn’t ready to let go of yet.

“I’m serious,” Cody continues, his voice softer now but no less firm. “You don’t get to keep doing this to me. You don’t get to flip-flop between wanting me and pushing me away like I’m some toy you can pick up and put down whenever you feel like it.” His words slice through the air, sharp and unrelenting.

Roman flinches, his chest tightening. “That’s not what I’m doing, Cody.”

“Isn’t it?” Cody’s voice cracks, and Roman hates himself a little more for it. “We break up twice within the span of two years because long distance sucks. Okay, I can take my part in that. But then show up at my house after years of near radio silence—barring our awkward reunion at 38–and then leave when things get too real. You talk me into being friends and then quickly ignore me and avoid any close contact. You drunk dial me one night, telling me you love me, and the next morning text me to forget it even happened,” Cody ticks off each accusation with a count of his fingers before taking a deep breath. “You can’t keep doing this to me, Roman. It’s breaking me.”

Roman feels the weight of every word like a punch to the gut. He wants to argue, to explain himself, but what can he say? Cody isn’t wrong. He has been flip-flopping, torn between what he really wants and what he thinks he should do.

“Cody…” Roman starts, but Cody cuts him off again.

“No,” Cody says firmly, stepping closer this time. His eyes are glassy, but his jaw is set with determination. “You don’t get to do this anymore. My heart is shattered, Roman. I’m sick with how much I want you, how much I miss you every single day. But this cycle we’re stuck in? It’s toxic. It’s unhealthy. And I need it to end.”

Roman feels his own eyes sting, tears pricking at the corners. He blinks them back furiously, refusing to let them fall. Not now. Not when he’s already managed to screw things up so badly.

“I want you forever, Ro. I always have,” Cody continues, his voice dropping to a whisper. “I think you know that. But I can’t keep waiting for you to figure your shit out. You need to decide, Roman. Are you all in or all out?”

Roman clenches his fists at his sides, the truth of Cody’s words sinking in. He feels raw, exposed, like Cody has stripped him down to his very core and left him with nowhere to hide.

Cody used to be the only person he felt comfortable being so exposed in front of. Now he feels ashamed.

“‘I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know one thing: I’ll find my way back to you one day,’” Cody recites the words Roman had lovingly and painstakingly written years ago. 

Roman can’t help the tears that gather this time and his head drops. 

“You wrote me that letter,” Cody says softly, his voice trembling now. “You promised it wasn’t the end. So either hold firm to your promise or let me go. For me. Please.”

Roman’s breath catches in his throat, the memory of that letter flooding back in vivid detail. He’d written it during one of their darkest moments, when he thought letting Cody go was the only way to protect their hearts from irreparable damage and the only way for Cody to live his dreams. Now, standing here in front of him and facing a mess of his own making, Roman wonders if he was ever really protecting either of them at all. 

Cody takes a step back, his expression softening slightly as he looks at Roman. “Just think about it,” he says quietly before turning and walking out the door.

The sound of the latch clicking shut echoes in the empty room, leaving Roman alone with his thoughts and his guilt. He sinks down onto the bench, burying his face in his hands.

He curses himself, over and over again, for all the mistakes he’s made since Cody came back into his life. For the drunken call and the hasty retreats. For the fear that’s kept him from fully giving himself to the one person who’s always seen him for who he truly is.

Roman stands abruptly, pacing the length of the locker room. His mind races, trying to piece together what to do next. Should he chase after Cody? Should he leave it alone? The uncertainty grips him, squeezing tighter with every passing second.

He feels like he’s drowning, like the walls are closing in around him. Slowly, he sinks to the floor, his back against the wall, and drops his head into his hands.

The tears come then, hot and unbidden, spilling down his cheeks as he considers everything he’s done, but more importantly, everything he hasn’t. He thinks about Cody, about the way he looked at him with so much love and so much pain all at once, and it guts him.

How did I let it get this far? he thinks, his fists clenching against his thighs. How did I ever let him go? How do I keep letting him go?

Roman sits there for what feels like hours, his mind racing with regrets and what-ifs. He knows Cody’s right, that he needs to figure it out, needs to decide what he really wants. Because the thought of losing Cody for good is almost too much to bear.

Roman knows what he needs to do. 

He just doesn’t know if he’s brave enough to do it.

Lonely water, lonely water, won't you let us wander?
Let us hold each other

Chapter Text

January - February 2024

Roman stands outside Cody’s bus, the uncharacteristically cold January air in Tampa biting at his skin. He shifts his weight from one foot to the other, his hands shoved deep into the pockets of his joggers. The Royal Rumble is tomorrow, and the buzz of the event is gaining traction, the high of Smackdown still thick in the air. But Roman isn’t thinking about that. He’s thinking about Cody, about how he’s spent the last three months unraveling every mistake he’s ever made, every moment he allowed fear to get the better of him. 

As though he hadn’t already been doing that for the previous six years. But now with Cody asking Roman to man up or stay away, Roman knows he has to fix things. Fix himself. 

So he’s here now, ready to lay it all on the line.

He knocks softly on the door, half hoping Cody isn’t inside, half praying he is. There’s a long pause, and then the door creaks open. Cody stands there, looking as tired as Roman feels. His muscles are tense, his eyes cautious, and looking as gorgeous as Roman can ever remember. He gulps. 

“Hey,” Roman says, his voice low. “Can we talk?”

Cody hesitates, his gaze flickering over Roman’s face as if searching for answers in the lines of it. Finally, he steps aside, nodding toward the interior of the bus. “Come in.”

Roman follows him inside, the warmth of the bus wrapping around him like a blanket. Cody sits on the edge of the couch, his elbows on his knees, staring at the floor. Roman stays standing, unsure if he’s allowed to get too close, too comfortable. He clears his throat, nerves prickling under his skin.

“Cody, I...” Roman starts, then stops, shaking his head. “I’ve been thinking—no, not thinking. Obsessing. About you. About us. About every damn thing I’ve ever done wrong. Every time I let my fear get in the way. Every time I wasn’t there when you needed me.”

Cody doesn’t move, but his eyes soften just a fraction.

“Everything you said in October. The toxic back and forth, pulling you in just to push you away, asking to be friends and then immediately retreating. You were right. You are right. It felt like I couldn’t help myself; like I was watching someone else in my body treat the only person… treat you in a way that any other version of me would be ashamed of.”

The softness in Cody’s eyes becomes cloudy tears, yet Roman persists. 

He has so much to say. 

“I let you go because I was scared,” Roman continues, his voice low and raw. “Every time I let you go. I’ve spent the last three months analyzing our relationship. Picking apart why I ever let you leave. And I realized… it wasn’t because I didn’t love you. It was because I was scared. Scared I’d fuck it up like I always seem to do. Scared of not being enough for you. Scared of losing myself in you. But the thing is… I already lost myself in you a long time ago. And I don’t want to find myself again if it means not having you in my life.”

Cody exhales slowly, his arms dropping to his sides. He blinks the tears away before looking up and steeling his shoulders.

“What are you saying, Roman?” Cody asks quietly.

“I’m saying I’m sorry. I’m so sorry, Cody,” Roman says, his voice shaking. “For everything. For pushing you away. For not fighting harder for us. For being so damn scared of my own feelings that I let you walk out of my life.”

Cody looks down at his hands, his jaw tightening. “It wasn’t just you, Roman. I walked away too.”

“Yeah, but I’m the one who forced the initial conversation. And I should’ve stopped you,” Roman says fiercely. “I should’ve fought for you. But I’m done being scared. I’m done letting my insecurities dictate my life. I’ll never pull away again Cody. I’m yours.”

Cody looks up at him then, his eyes searching Roman’s face. “Do you mean that?”

“With everything I am,” Roman says without hesitation.

Cody leans back into the couch, running a hand through his hair. “This isn’t going to be easy, Roman. We’ve both hurt each other. A lot.”

“I know,” Roman says softly. “But I’m willing to do whatever it takes. Everything it takes. If you’ll have me. And even if you won’t, I know I have work to do on myself.”

Roman gazes at the man he is absolutely positive is the love of his life. Cody remains stiff and unmoving; still in the wake of Roman’s many confessions. He doesn’t know if Cody is going to forgive him. Doesn’t even know that he thinks Cody should forgive him.

But he wants this so badly. He gives it one last shot.

“I meant every word I wrote in that letter,” Roman continues, his voice cracking slightly. “Every single word, Cody. I never wanted to hurt you. And I know I don’t deserve another chance, but I’m asking for one anyway. Because I love you. I’m in love with you. And if you give me the chance to be with you again, I promise I’ll never let you down.”

Cody’s gaze softens, just a little. “Roman… you  hurt me,” he says quietly, his voice rough with emotion. “More than anyone ever has.”

Roman swallows hard, his throat dry. “I know. And I can’t apologize enough. Words don’t matter much, but I promise you my actions… those do, and they will.”

The silence that follows is heavy, almost suffocating. Cody’s jaw tightens, and for a moment, Roman thinks he’s going to tell him to leave. But then Cody stands, closing the distance between them in two quick strides. His hand comes up to Roman’s chest, resting over his heart like he’s checking to make sure it’s still beating.

Cody steps closer still, until they’re almost chest to chest. His hand slides up to Roman’s shoulder, gripping it tightly. “Do you have any idea how much it killed me to walk away from you?”

Roman nods, his eyes burning. “Yeah. Yeah, I do.”

Cody’s other hand comes up to cup Roman’s cheek, his thumb brushing over the thick hair there. Roman leans into the touch, his heart racing. He can feel the warmth of Cody’s breath on his skin, can see the storm of emotions swirling in his eyes.

“I want to believe you,” Cody whispers, his voice barely audible. “But I’m scared.”

Roman reaches up, covering Cody’s hand with his own. “I know. I am too. But I’m done letting fear control me. I’m done running from this, from us.”

Cody’s breath hitches, and for a moment, neither of them moves. Then, slowly, Cody leans in and rests his forehead against Roman’s, their breaths mingling in the space between them. “You’re an idiot,” Cody murmurs, but there’s no malice in his voice; only affection.

Roman chuckles despite himself, his hands falling down to rest on Cody’s hips. “Yeah, maybe. But I’m your idiot.”

Cody smiles at that, a real smile that reaches his eyes and lights up his whole face. For a moment, they just stand there, lost in each other’s gaze, the tension between them crackling like electricity.

“I need time to think,” Cody says finally, his voice gentle but firm. “This… it’s a lot. And I don’t want to rush into something just because it feels good right now.”

Roman nods, swallowing hard. “I understand.”

“But…” Cody pauses, his thumb brushing against Roman’s cheek. “I want you to know that I feel it too. Everything you said… I feel the same way. You know I do.”

Roman’s heart swells at those words, and before he can stop himself, he leans in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to Cody’s lips. It’s chaste but charged, and when they pull apart, Cody’s eyes are dark with desire, a look Roman is all too familiar with but respectfully pretends isn’t there.

“Take your time,” Roman murmurs, his voice trembling. “Think it over. I’ll wait for you. No matter how long it takes.”

Cody nods slowly, his eyes still closed as he tries to steady his breathing. Roman presses one last gentle kiss to his lips before heading to the door. He pauses with his hand on the knob, looking back at Cody one more time.

“Good luck tomorrow, Cody,” he says quietly. “I believe in you. I always have.”

And then he’s gone, leaving Cody sitting there with only his thoughts and the taste of Roman still lingering on his lips.

There are so many lines that I've crossed, unforgiven
I'll tell you the truth, but never, "Goodbye"

Roman settles into the luxury box, the leather seat cool against his back as he leans forward, elbows resting on his knees. Heyman sits next to him chattering away about what he knows of the upcoming storyline, but Roman is having a hard time focusing. 

The arena buzzes with energy, the crowd roaring like a living, breathing entity. The men’s Royal Rumble match is about to start, and Roman can’t help but feel a knot of anticipation twist in his gut. He’s fresh off his fatal four-way win, but tonight isn’t about him. Tonight, it’s about Cody.

He drums his fingers on the railing, his focus sharp despite the exhaustion tugging at his muscles. He wasn’t told who would win, only that it would come down to Punk and Cody. The storyline could go either way. But as the match unfolds and Cody enters exactly halfway through, Roman’s gaze locks onto him; he is entranced by every move, every counter, every moment of struggle. There’s something in the way Cody fights that is relentless, determined, unwavering, and it all makes Roman’s chest tighten.

Roman’s heart pounds louder with each second that passes. He’s going to win, Roman thinks, a certainty settling in his chest. Hunter may have been vague about what’s coming up, but Roman is as certain as he’s ever been. It feels more than just a prediction; it feels like fate.

When Cody finally tosses Punk over the ropes, the arena explodes. Roman has to refrain from grinning and clapping, so he clasps the armrests tightly as Cody climbs the turnbuckle in victory, immediately making the Too Sweet gesture and pointing at the Wrestlemania sign. The camera flashes, the crowd whistles and chants his name, and for a moment, Roman forgets the tension between them, his admission of love and apology, the months and years of uncertainty. 

All he sees is Cody Rhodes, glowing under the lights, alive in a way that steals Roman’s breath. Being adored and celebrated in a way he’s always deserved. In a way that Roman has always hoped for him.

And then it happens.

Cody turns, his eyes scanning the crowd until they land on Roman in the suite. His arm shoots out, finger pointing directly at him. “You!” Cody shouts, and even though it’s impossible to hear with an entire arena between them bellowing, Roman knows exactly what Cody is doing: he’s making it known that Roman is who he’s chosen. 

The words hit Roman like a shockwave. He blinks, stunned, as the crowd roars even louder. His heart races, his mind spinning. This wasn’t part of the plan. He wasn’t supposed to be called out like this, the Wise Man hadn’t said anything about it. But as he stares back at Cody, something shifts. He sees it then: the fire in Cody’s eyes, the determination, the unspoken challenge.

Roman stands tall with his title in his hands and Heyman by his side, playing up the tension and his signature shit-talking for the camera and fans. He knows what’s expected of him now. He doesn’t have to try too hard to find motivation, feeling the rush of excitement firing every nerve as he stares down at the winner of the Royal Rumble.

Cody is still perched on the ropes, pointing emphatically at Roman and calling him out. As the roar of the crowd reaches a fever pitch witnessing what he knows will be a viral moment, Roman can’t help but feel an immense tug of pride at his heart. No matter how complicated things are between them, or how long he has to wait for Cody, Roman thinks that there’s never been anybody so deserving of a Royal Rumble win as the man staring up at him. 

As Cody steps down from the turnbuckle and heads up the ramp, Roman sinks back into his seat, his mind racing, trying not to get his hopes up. This is work; their Wrestlemania rematch and what Roman is sure will be Cody finishing his story. Just because they’ll likely be engaged in a months-long storyline doesn’t mean Cody will decide to forgive him, give things a shot, and everything will be fine.

And yet? Roman still hopes.

Threw out our cloaks and our daggers because it's morning now
It's brighter now, now

Roman sluggishly trudges out of his car, rolling his shoulders in an attempt to erase the tension and emotional turmoil this weekend has brought. It took him hours to shake off the Wise Man and his cousins, now all he wants to do is crawl into his bed and sleep for a day. He’s never been so thankful that a PLE took place in his hometown. 

Shuffling up the driveway to his house, Roman stops dead in his tracks when he spots a flash of blonde hair and an American Nightmare hoodie. 

A million thoughts converge in his brain at once: does this mean Cody has forgiven him; is Cody here to tell him off; fuck Cody looks beautiful even when he’s exhausted; will they be discussing their upcoming match; is he allowed to get his hopes up? The line of thinking has him dizzy and even with all the eloquent things he could say, what tumbles out isn’t exactly the line he intends to deliver.

“How do you know where I live?” 

Thankfully Cody must understand his struggle because he chuckles lightly and shrugs. “Gee Ro, thought you might be happy to see me. But if not, I can just…” he trails off and gestures to the gate. 

“No!” Roman all but shouts. He closes his eyes to quell the rising excitement. “Please, don’t go.”

Cody smiles back at him and steps closer. “Wasn’t gonna. And to answer your question: someone with our mutual happiness in mind may have helped with the address.”

“Seth,” Roman immediately says, smiling at the thought of his best friend coming in clutch yet again. 

“Yep,” Cody confirms. “And the gate code? You still use the same four digits for everything: 0630. A little surprised you’re still using it, but pleasantly so.” 

Cheeks flushing with mild embarrassment, Roman nods. “Pretty important date.” 

Cody hums lowly and approaches closer. He seems to hesitate on what to do next and Roman watches his hand twitch as though he wants to reach out and touch him. 

Roman wishes he would.

“I have a lot I want to say,” Cody says firmly. “Do you want to invite me in first?” 

Smiling almost shyly, Roman gestures to the front door. “After you, Mr. Two Time.” 

Cody rolls his eyes playfully but grabs his bag and heads toward the door. Roman unlocks the door when they reach it, allowing Cody to walk through first and flicking on the foyer and living room lights.

Roman’s heart thuds erratically in his chest. This isn’t at all how he pictured his night ending, but now it’s the only way he wants it to. Something about Cody being here in his home feels so right, despite him never having been in this particular house before. He watches as Cody takes in the place, eyes landing on familiar pictures and artifacts that once decorated their shared home. 

After showing Cody to the living room and grabbing them each a glass of water from the kitchen, Roman finds his way back to see Cody sitting on the couch, one leg folded beneath him. He accepts the water from Roman gratefully.

Moments pass where neither speak, making Roman itchy with anxiety. He knows he shouldn’t press, but he can’t help it. He needs to know why Cody is here. 

“Cody, why—”

“Roman, I—”

They speak simultaneously and then chuckle awkwardly. Roman gestures for Cody to go first.

Nervously wiping his hands against his thighs, Cody takes a deep breath. “There’s a really good chance that The Rock is coming back and he’s taking the main event spot at Wrestlemania. Against you.”

And what comes out is not at all what Roman was expecting. His mouth gapes open for a moment before he shakes his head as though clearing the fog away.

“Dwayne? My cousin? What—I mean, how? Why? You just won the Rumble,” Roman states in disbelief.

Cody chuckles sardonically and shrugs. “He’s The Rock, Roman. You have to understand what that means when he shows up,” Cody states in a tone Roman knows came directly from their boss. “Apparently it’s not a done deal, but close enough that Hunter wanted me prepared just in case. So,” Cody shrugs, “there’s that.” 

Roman rubs his forehead and tosses the news around in his mind. He loves his cousin, but this fucking blows. There’s no one else he wants to share the ring with at Wrestlemania except Cody. 

“Cody, I’m sorry. Whatever Dwayne and Hunter are cooking up, it’s bullshit. I had no idea, I swear…”

Cody immediately moves a hand to cover one of Roman’s, the slight touch causing sparks of heat to dance across Roman’s skin. “Ro, no—please. I didn’t come here because I thought you knew. The opposite; I was positive you had no idea. Not even Mr. Heyman is aware.”

Roman doesn’t realize he was holding his breath until Cody confirms he only believes the best in him. “So what now? Where do things go from here?”

Shrugging again, Cody runs a hand over his freshly washed hair and sighs. “Have no idea. Doesn’t really matter I guess. If The Rock wants in, he’s in. If he doesn’t, then I guess it’s you and me.” 

“Cody, how can you say it doesn’t matter? You’ve worked your ass off for this, you deserve that spot at Wrestlemania with me,” Roman declares emphatically.

Cody’s eyes soften and he hesitantly scoots closer to Roman. “Thank you. I needed to hear that. Which is why I’m here,” he clears his throat nervously. “You’re the only person I wanted to see all night. Since Hunter talked to me, really. Couldn’t afford to lose focus before the match, but as soon as it was over I just… needed to find you.” 

Roman takes a deep breath. “Why did you need to find me, Cody?” 

“I needed to be with the only person who gets it. Who gets me. And after everything—everything you said yesterday. I couldn’t stay away, Ro. I needed to feel… home,” Cody quietly admits, eyes downcast as he finishes.

And whatever Roman felt was holding him back, he can’t stay away anymore. Without thinking, he pulls Cody toward him, wrapping his arms around Cody’s middle and burying his face into the familiar curve of his neck. Cody immediately relaxes into his embrace and loops his arms tightly around Roman’s neck. 

“I don’t want to make any assumptions, especially after you made it clear you don’t want to rush back into things. I want to respect that, Cody. But I am so glad you’re here with me,” Roman murmurs into Cody’s ear.

Not even attempting to hide the shiver this action causes, Cody pulls back just enough so that they’re face to face, noses almost touching. 

“I know,” Cody agrees, “I said we shouldn’t rush. But as everything unfolded today, all I kept coming back to was you. The look in your eyes as you apologized and promised to never leave again. As I kept replaying it, it struck me: I completely believe you. I know you, I know your heart. And yeah, we could take this slow. I could hold on to resentment and make you grovel. But what will that do besides further our misery? It’s stupid and I don’t want to do it. We’ve wasted so much time, Ro.” 

Roman’s breath is ragged as Cody talks. It’s everything he wants right in front of him. All he has to do is reach out and take it.

“I’m not saying we pick up right where we left off. That would be naive of us,” Cody admits. “But it’s also foolish of us to think we can start slowly. I think we just… take this at whatever pace feels right, and the rest we’ll figure out.” 

He can’t help it; Roman surges forward to place a less-than-chaste kiss to Cody’s lips, causing Cody to giggle into his mouth. 

Once they part, Cody’s glazed but exhausted eyes peer up at him. Roman smiles fondly and pulls Cody up with him, holding his hand as he leads him to the stairs. He catches the raised eyebrow and smirk on Cody’s face and shakes his head. 

“Slow down, perv,” Roman teasingly reprimands. “Just to sleep.” 

Cody laughs softly and lets himself be led to the safe haven of Roman’s bedroom. 

After they’ve gone through the motions of brushing teeth, washing faces, and undressing down to their briefs, they climb into bed. Roman bites the inside of his mouth, trying to temper the excitement when he realizes how easily they fall back into their “regular” sides of the bed. Cody immediately curls into Roman’s side, resting his head on his chest and hand coming up to trace the outline of his tribal tattoo.

Roman’s not at all surprised at the tears that spring to his own eyes at the feeling of complete happiness and home that hits his heart. It’s been over eight years since their first breakup, since their happy home was sold and the life they built together was abandoned. In this moment, he realizes he has everything he’s been missing and wanting since then and it’s overwhelming.

He feels a gentle hand tip his jaw to the side, fingertips soothingly running through his beard and over his cheekbone. “It’s okay, Ro,” Cody whispers. “I’m here now. We’re here.”

And something in Roman snaps. The tears pour down unbidden and he turns on his side to pull Cody into a tight embrace. Cody returns it just as emphatically, sniffles of his own breaking out every now and then. 

When he wakes the next morning, Roman isn’t sure how long they laid together softly crying and caressing each other before they drifted to sleep. What he does know, though? They’re still wrapped tightly in each other’s arms, neither man wanting to move from the home they’ve rediscovered in each other. 

And I can still see it all (in my mind)
All of you, all of me (intertwined)

Roman replays the last several weeks in his head: the post-Rumble Smackdown where Dwayne had finalized his deal to return, breaking a bit of Cody’s heart (and ego) in the process. The immediate fan revolt that created the We Want Cody movement. Rewritten segment upon rewritten segment resulting in multiple storyline pivots. Cody becoming more of a megastar in the process. And tonight, the Wrestlemania XL kickoff in Las Vegas. 

Cody has been on a rocket ship to an elite status of success and superstardom that few in their industry have ever reached. And he’s so proud and happy to be able to witness it all. No matter how busy it’s all been, Cody always ends his evenings with FaceTiming Roman. 

Roman hasn’t felt so happy since they lived in their small, loving home in Orlando.  

To top it off, tonight is the first time they’ve been together in person since the night of the Rumble and Roman is ecstatic to see Cody and download on the epic kickoff. 

As he gazes out at the bright lights of the Vegas strip from his suite, Roman feels his skin warm as he thinks of how confident (and okay, sexy) Cody looked when his cue to come out signaled. The fire in his eyes as he delivered his promo and prepared himself for the now infamous slap. 

His cousin still seems a bit salty about having his main event match overthrown, but he has to give it to Dwayne: he’s playing his new role to perfection. And Roman is (not so) secretly satisfied that Cody is getting exactly what he’s worked so hard to earn. He can’t wait to see him soon.

Roman continues to ponder all of this when a knock on the door causes his brow to furrow. He gave Cody the extra key and had told him to take his time, but to come by when he was done for the evening. Crossing the room in just a few strides, he has to laugh when he looks through the peephole. 

Upon opening the door, he finds a fairly tipsy Seth Rollins holding up a very drunk Cody Rhodes. 

“Believe this belongs to you,” Seth teases and points at the blonde lump hanging onto him. 

Roman nods and smiles. “Guilty. Thanks for bringing him back safely, Sethie.” 

Seth rolls his eyes but smiles fondly.

“Alright Nightmare, got you to your man safe and sound. Time to let go,” Seth teases as he dislodges Cody from where he’s draped over his shoulders.

Cody perks up and his eyes brighten, straightening to find the aforementioned man. “Ro! I’ve been looking for you,” he giggles, immediately reaching for Roman. 

Roman can’t help chuckling and accepting Cody into his arms, the other man immediately snuggling in. “Honey I don’t think you were going to find me at the bottom of the Wheatley bottle.” 

Cody giggles again while Seth guffaws from the hallway. “We didn’t get to the bottom, Ro. Was only a couple shots.” 

Roman looks toward Seth who very clearly mouths “six” at him. Roman stifles another laugh and gently pulls Cody back to look at him. 

“You’re so pretty. I missed you very, very much,” Cody flirts teasingly. 

“Alright, and that my friends, is my cue to leave. I don’t need to see what happens next,” Seth jokes. “Got a phone sex date with my husband anyway.”

And with that, Seth salutes Roman and stumbles down the hallway to his own room. 

After watching long enough to see Seth make it in safely, Roman helps Cody into their room and shuts the door behind them. Struggling to drag 222 pounds of giggling dead weight that is actively trying to grope him is a feat that Roman didn’t anticipate having to conquer tonight. When he gets them to the bed he is out of breath but still very amused. 

As Cody continues to try and touch him, Roman bats his hands away and gently helps him out of his button down and undershirt. He struggles to get Cody to cooperate with undoing and sliding off his pants, rolling his eyes affectionately through every innuendo Cody throws at him. 

Once undressed he convinces Cody to get underneath the covers and smiles fondly at him before stripping down to his own briefs and climbing in beside the other man. Cody immediately rolls onto him and heavily drapes his body over Roman’s.

“What happened to one or two drinks on the bus before coming to see me?” Roman teases, gently rubbing Cody’s back to let him know he isn’t at all mad. 

Cody looks up at him and those bright blue pools shine with mischief. “Seth talked me into it?” 

Roman huffs out a laugh and kisses the top of Cody’s head. “Nice try. He was far less inebriated than you.” 

“Hmm,” Cody ponders. “Becks talked us both into it?” 

“Becky joined you guys?” Roman questions, not too surprised. “Now that… okay, that one is a plausible excuse.”

“Rhea too,” Cody confirms as he snuggles deeper into Roman’s chest. “Apparently my bus has been dubbed the party bus.” 

“Oh I can see that,” Roman agrees. “Glad you had fun, sweetheart.” 

Pressing a kiss to Roman’s chest, Cody tilts his head up to look at him again. “I did. But… missed you, Ro,” he admits softly, words slurring a bit more, signaling Cody is on the verge of passing out. “Wanted to show off my new old boyfriend.” 

Roman hugs him even tighter if possible and kisses the top of his head once more. “New old? And boyfriend?”

“Yeah new cause we’re back together and old because we never should have been apart,” Cody says as though the logic is sound. “Course you’re my boyfriend. You… are my boyfriend, right?” 

And Cody’s voice is so small at that last part that Roman wants to never let him go. “Of course, Cody. It’s all I’ve wanted for so long.” 

Cody melts back into him like a puddle. “Sorry I didn’t make it earlier. Wanted to, but everyone was having such a good time.”

“You don’t need to apologize baby,” Roman promises, a hand tracing up and down Cody’s side. “This should be a fun time for you. Besides, we haven't really talked about how we want to handle any of this.”

“Handle what?” Cody questions sleepily. 

“How public we want to be. Considering everyone at work already knows our history. Then there’s this storyline and being careful about being seen together for the fans’ sake.”

Cody huffs petulantly. “Don’t care if anyone sees us,” he whines. “Just want to be around you whenever I want.” 

And Roman can’t help it, his heart bursts open with joy. “I want to be around you all the time too, sweetheart,” he agrees. “But, we’ve both been pretty good about toeing the line of kayfabe. Don’t want to ruin any of that.”

When Cody’s response is an unintelligible mumble, Roman leans back to see that Cody’s eyes are tightly shut and his mouth is now hanging slightly open. Roman can’t help but huff out a laugh and pull his man in tighter to his side. 

Even though this night has not gone at all the way he planned—namely having a romantic night with his new old boyfriend and finally getting to be intimate—now that they’re here in this ridiculously lavish hotel room, Roman holding a drunk Cody, he couldn’t be any happier with the way things unfolded. 

After all, they have an endless amount of tomorrows together.

I don’t wanna look at anything else now that I saw you
And I don’t wanna think of anything else now that I thought of you 

Chapter Text

March - April 2024

Cody’s belt is unbuckled, pants unzipped, and his shirt has been torn open; buttons are scattered across the floor of the bedroom in his bus. He’s currently being pressed into the bed by the familiar, exciting weight of Roman. And even though Roman has nearly 40 pounds on him, Cody feels like there isn’t enough weight on top of him. He wants to be swallowed whole by Roman; consumed by the man lying on top of him. Their time apart has only made Cody want him more. 

Since they’ve gotten back together Cody has been living in a dream-like state. He’s back in the WWE as himself, doing what he’s always dreamt of and is slated to finally finish his story. And now he has the love of his life back; the one person in the world meant for him. It’s overwhelming how special it all is.

As Roman feels up his chest and abs, Cody chases his lips again for another smoldering kiss. Cody kisses him desperately, as though they haven’t tasted each other in months when it’s only been seconds. Lips slide together, tongues caress, and the flavor of Roman invades all of Cody’s senses. 

But there’s something else simmering underneath it all that is making Cody feel uneasy. He’s not sure exactly what it is, but he is desperate and uneasy and mildly agitated. Not with Roman, but with himself. And since Cody is unable to pinpoint the exact source of his frustration, he’s taking matters into his own hands with what he knows will be an immensely pleasurable distraction.

Roman’s large hands grip Cody’s hips, pulling him down so that their clothed lower halves align, grinding against one another. A lewd moan slips from Cody’s mouth into Roman’s as they continue to slide their lips together. 

This. This is all he wants. The press of Roman’s lips, the scrape of his beard, the possessive grip of his hands. If he can just get closer, if he can just lose himself in this, maybe the nagging dread in the pit of his stomach will finally shut up.

But as Roman’s lips leave his mouth to trail a scorching path down his jaw, his neck, to his collarbone, a thought surfaces unbidden and unwelcome. What happens after? What happens when the bell rings and the story they’ve built in this private world collides with the one they’re paid to tell on screen?

Cody sighs and digs a hand into the tattooed muscles of Roman’s back, the other tugging at his raven hair. It’s an effort to clear his mind of the tumultuous thought. He pulls Roman’s head away from his neck and dives in to press biting kisses to the flesh of Roman’s shoulder. It's so much and not enough at the same time. 

Cody needs more, more, more. 

Roman must sense Cody’s rising desperation. “Sweetheart slow down, we don’t need to rush,” he pants, unable to fully catch his breath. But Cody persists. “Sweetheart, come on, let’s take a second… Cody!” 

Cody pulls back, breathless, and tips his head back to gulp in the air.

“Hey,” Roman drops his voice to a gentle murmur, his thumb stroking a soothing pattern on the inside of Cody’s wrist. “Where’s the fire? We’ve got all night.”

The tenderness in his voice is what undoes Cody. The frantic energy drains out of him, leaving a sudden, hollow anxiety in its place. He looks away, focusing on the pattern of the ceiling instead of Roman’s probing gaze.

Roman doesn’t push. He just stays there, a warm, solid weight, his thumb never stopping its gentle motion. The silence stretches, comfortable and patient. It’s that patience, that unwavering calm, that finally coaxes the truth out of Cody. Something he wasn’t fully aware of until this very moment, but now that it hits him, he knows this is what has been bothering him and it all tumbles out.

“It’s just…” Cody starts, his voice small. “It’s happening. Wrestlemania is coming and it means I’m finishing the story. I… I’m taking it all from you.”

Roman’s expression softens with understanding. He shifts, rolling to lie beside Cody on the bed, propping his head up on one hand. His other hand comes to rest on Cody’s stomach, a warm, grounding weight. “You’re not taking anything from me, Cody.”

“But I am!” Cody insists, turning to face him. “The title, the historic reign… it’s who you are out there. It’s everything you’ve built. What happens after? When it’s just… us again? What if it changes things? Now that I’ve finally got you back, I can't take anything coming between us again.”

All of his fears, locked tight in his chest for weeks, come spewing out of him. The championship isn’t just a belt; it’s a legacy, a dynasty representing Roman and the Bloodline. And Cody is the usurper. He’s been so desperate to seal their reunion with physical proof, with this act of love, because some part of him is terrified it will all vanish in the glare of the Wrestlemania lights.

Roman listens, his focus absolute. When Cody finishes, he lets out a long, slow breath. “Look at me.” Cody does. Roman’s eyes are serious, unwavering. “That title? That’s just a pretty strap of leather with gold. A chapter in my book. A damn important one, but it’s not the whole book.” He gestures between the two of them, lying together in the dim light. “This is the book. You and me. That’s the only story that matters.”

He leans closer, his voice dropping to an intense, hushed tone. “The man on TV, the Tribal Chief… that’s a performance. A character I play. But this…” He moves his hand from Cody’s stomach to his cheek, cupping his face. “This man right here, the one who’s in love with you? The one who caved on adopting Pharaoh but secretly wanted a dog the whole time? The man who flew to Atlanta when we weren’t even together because I couldn’t bear the thought of you alone and hurt? The man who spent years missing you so much it was like a physical ache? That’s me. That’s real. And losing a championship, a storyline, anything… it doesn’t touch that. It can’t.”

Cody searches his face, looking for any hint of a lie, any shadow of doubt. He finds none. Only a fierce, steady certainty. The tight knot of anxiety in his chest begins to loosen.

“You really mean that?” Cody whispers.

Roman’s answer is a kiss, slow and deep and filled with a promise that feels more binding than any contract. When he pulls away, he rests his forehead against Cody’s. “I have never been more sure of anything in my life. You are it for me. Titles come and go. This?” He glances around the bus, their little sanctuary. “This is finally our forever, baby. And I’m not screwing it up this time. You believe that right?”

Cody lets out a shaky laugh, his hands coming up to frame Roman’s face. “I do, I swear. I just got caught up in my own anxiety. But I believe you, Ro.”

Cody feels the frantic, desperate energy that had been fueling him simply dissolve, leaving behind a profound and sudden exhaustion. The tension drains from his muscles, and his hands fall from Roman’s face.

“I’m so tired, Ro,” he admits, his voice barely a whisper.

“I know you are.” Roman’s smile is tender. He leans down and presses a soft, lingering kiss to Cody’s forehead. “It’s been a long few months. You’ve been carrying all of that by yourself. You don’t have to.” He shifts again, pulling the comforter over both of them. He wraps his arms around Cody, pulling him close until Cody’s head is tucked under his chin. “Just sleep. I’ve got you.”

Cody lets his eyes fall shut, surrounded by the solid warmth of Roman’s body, the steady beat of his heart a soothing rhythm against his ear. The fear is gone, overshadowed by the sheer, overwhelming certainty in Roman’s promise. For the first time all night, his mind is quiet.

“Love you,” he slurs, already half-asleep.

He feels the rumble of Roman’s voice more than hears the words. “Love you more. Now go to sleep.”

It's not a walk in the park to love each other
But when our fingers interlock, can't deny, can't deny you're worth it

It’s just past 3AM when Cody quietly enters the hotel suite, resting his back against the door. It has been an extraordinary night, as evidenced by the shiny gold title belt draped over his shoulder, Roman’s side plates still bolted on. He takes a moment to drink in the calm before he realizes the lights are dimly lit and music is softly playing throughout the room. 

Smiling to himself, Cody quickly drops his title and his bag and makes his way to the bedroom where Roman is sitting against the headboard with his iPad propped up on his knees. He’s shirtless and dressed in soft sweats from the waist down. Upon seeing Cody he grins warmly and sets it down on the nightstand. 

“Hey Champ,” Roman greets him softly, patting the bed next to him. 

Cody tugs his windbreaker off and hurriedly goes to sit on the side of the bed next to Roman. Without preamble he pulls the larger man in for a tender hug, sighing in relief when Roman buries his face into Cody’s neck. 

Eventually they pull back and smile at each other. 

“Surprised you’re still awake,” Cody says lovingly, running a knuckle across Roman’s cheekbone in reverence. 

Roman catches the hand and brings it to his lips for a kiss. “Wanted to wait for you, sweetheart. Surprised you aren’t drunk,” he teases.

Cody rolls his eyes and shakes his head. “No, I think my drunken night in Vegas was enough to last a few months. Celebrated hard, had a few drinks but downed water in between. Let everyone else get inebriated for me. Wanted to make it back to you.” 

“Yeah?” Roman questions softly, almost in awe by the admission. “You really wanted to spend your big night with me? I’m sure the after party was spectacular.” 

Shrugging, Cody laces the fingers of his hand through Roman’s. “Sure, it was pretty good. A little over the top if I’m being honest. All I really wanted to do was get back to you though. Know you couldn’t be there in case pictures got taken, but it wasn’t the same. Celebrating without the person who means the most to me.” 

Roman leans over to tenderly brush his lips against Cody’s, a hand coming up to gently cradle the back of Cody’s head. The kiss is almost chaste, but it still makes Cody’s belly burn with desire. 

Pulling away suddenly, he stands from the bed and stretches, watching as Roman’s eyes lazily flick over his body in interest. Cody smirks and slowly removes his Wrestlemania 40 shirt, smiling wider when Roman unconsciously licks his lips. 

“See something you like?” Cody questions, toying with the waistband of his joggers. Roman’s eyes trace the movement and he nods enthusiastically. 

“Like what’s underneath even better,” Roman casually admits. Wasting no time, he reaches forward and tugs at the waistband to pull Cody on top of him. 

Falling heavily on top of Roman, Cody braces his hands next to those beautiful onyx tresses. His eyes lovingly roam across the other man’s face as if trying to commit each line, freckle, and crease to memory. When their eyes finally meet, they dive in to taste each other. 

Their lips move together in familiarity; passion and heat building with every second that passes. Cody swears he could live right here in the space between Roman’s thighs, kissing this man he loves so much. 

He pulls away and smiles fondly as Roman growls at the loss of his lips. Shaking his head, he sits up and moves down Roman’s body. 

Cody tugs the sweats and the briefs beneath them down in one motion, freeing Roman’s thick, half-hard cock. He nuzzles the inside of Roman’s thigh, inhaling the clean, musky scent of his skin, a fragrance uniquely him that Cody has dreamed of for years. He presses an open-mouthed kiss to the sensitive skin there, earning a sharp hiss from above.

Then he moves lower. He uses his hands to part Roman’s muscular cheeks, exposing him completely. This is an image Cody’s never been able to scrub from his mind, that or the sinful sounds Roman would make every time Cody paid attention to this area. He hears Roman’s breath catch, feels the muscles in his thighs tremble. Cody leans in, his tongue flat and wet, and licks a long, firm stripe from his entrance right up to his balls.

Roman’s curse is guttural, shredded. “Fuck, baby. Love when you lick me out. Come on sweetheart, get me hard enough to fuck you.”

Emboldened, Cody does it again, and again, lavishing attention on the tight, forbidden furl of muscle. He teases with the very tip of his tongue, circling, pressing gently, then flattening again to worship the entire area. He’s lost in the act, in the taste and the feel and the incredible, submissive trust Roman is offering him by just laying there, his hands now clenched in Cody’s hair, his hips giving minute, helpless thrusts into the air.

Roman is achingly hard now, his cock straining against his stomach. Cody gives one last, lingering lick before sitting back on his heels. 

Roman pulls him up, his kisses frantic as he pulls off Cody’s joggers and briefs. He lays him down among the mountain of pillows, his movements fluid and sure. Now they are both naked, skin to skin under the dim light.

Roman reaches for the nightstand, fumbling for a moment before his hand returns with a small bottle. The click of the cap is loud in the quiet room. He slicks his fingers, his eyes never leaving Cody’s.

“You ready for me?” Roman whispers, his slicked fingers tracing a slow, teasing circle around Cody’s entrance.

Cody just nods, his head pushing back into the pillows. He’s beyond words.

The first finger is a slow, burning stretch. Roman watches his face, his expression a mixture of concentration and awe. “So good. Always warm and tight,” Roman murmurs, crooking his finger, searching. When he finds the spot, a bolt of pure, undiluted pleasure shoots through Cody, making his back arch off the bed. “There it is, just like I remember. Taking it like my good boy.” 

A second finger joins the first, the stretch deeper, more intense. Roman scissors them gently, patiently, stretching him open with a reverence usually reserved for holy things. He leans down, capturing Cody’s mouth in a deep, sloppy kiss, swallowing his moans. The dual sensations are overwhelming; the careful, delicious invasion below, the consuming possession of his mouth above.

“I’m good, I’m ready, Ro, please,” Cody begs after he breaks the kiss, his voice shaking. “Need to feel you inside me.”

Roman slicks himself, his hand stroking his own length once, twice. He positions himself, the blunt head of his cock pressing against Cody. He pushes in unbearably slowly, his eyes screwed shut in concentration, in feeling.

The stretch is immense, breathtaking, and Cody feels impossibly full, stretched to his limit. He whimpers, a high, desperate sound.

“Breathe, baby,” Roman coaches, his own breath hitching as he sinks in another inch. “Just breathe through it. You’re taking me so good.”

Cody forces a breath into his burning lungs, and as he exhales, Roman pushes home, burying himself to the hilt. They both cry out, a shared sound of pure, unadulterated sensation. For a long moment, neither moves. They are fused together, panting, sweating, hearts hammering against each other’s chests.

“God, you feel…,” Roman gasps, his hips starting to shallowly move, “…you feel like home.”

He begins to move in earnest, a slow, rolling rhythm that’s more about connection than frenzy. Each thrust is deep, measured, hitting that spot inside Cody with unerring accuracy. The room fills with the sound of their ragged breathing, the slick slide of skin on skin, the soft, creaking rhythm of the bed.

Roman leans down, his mouth finding Cody’s ear. “You take me so good, sweetheart,” he whispers, his voice rough with emotion. “Always have.” He shifts his angle, driving deeper, and Cody cries out, his nails digging into the sweat-slicked skin of Roman’s back.

The pace begins to quicken, the slow burn igniting into a steady flame. Roman’s thrusts become more urgent, his control starting to fray at the edges. He fists a hand in Cody’s hair, tilting his head back to claim his mouth again in a searing kiss.

“You close?” Roman pants against his lips, his hips pounding a relentless, perfect rhythm now. His lips find Cody’s neck and leave hot, nipping kisses against heated flesh.

Cody can only nod, his own orgasm coiling tight in his belly, sparked by every grunt from Roman’s mouth, every word of filthy, sweet praise.

And it all feels too good… but Cody is missing that one thing he needs to make this everything he’s dreamt about and missed. To get him where he needs to be; dangling from the precipice of an all-consuming orgasm. 

He needs to hear Roman say it.

“Please say it,” Cody begs, body trembling from the intense pleasure Roman is currently putting him through. 

Roman’s lips leave his neck temporarily to look down at him with hooded eyes. “Say what?” 

“What you always call me,” Cody pleads. “Please, Ro.” 

A sexy smirk curves onto Roman’s handsome face. His hips move maddeningly slow and Cody gasps from the sensual teasing. 

“Mmm you feel so good… baby boy,” Roman emphasizes the affectionate name with a quick snap of his hips, hitting Cody in that delicious sweet spot. 

“Fuck yes,” Cody moans obscenely, precome leaking onto his toned stomach. 

Roman groans and keeps his hips snapping at a steady pace. “You’re so hot baby boy, leaking all over yourself. Ready for me to touch that pretty cock?” 

“Please Ro, need it,” Cody whines.

“Fuck you always beg so pretty for me,” Roman grunts, leaning down to capture Cody’s lips again. His hand finds its way to Cody’s cock and grasps it just on the right side of pleasurably painful, tugging at it in a rhythm Roman knows from years of experience that Cody loves. 

It only takes a few passes of Roman’s warm, calloused hand before Cody cries out, his orgasm crashing over him without warning. It tears through him, wracking his body with intense pulses of pleasure, his release painting hot stripes between their stomachs. Roman watches him fall apart, his own control snapping. With a guttural groan, he buries himself to the hilt and follows him over, his heat spilling deep inside Cody.

They collapse together, a tangled, sweaty heap of limbs. Roman’s weight is a comforting anchor, pressing Cody into the mattress. For a long time, the only sound is their ragged breathing slowly returning to normal. Roman nuzzles into the crook of Cody’s neck, pressing a soft, lingering kiss there.

He shifts his weight off, but immediately gathers Cody against his side. Cody goes willingly, boneless and sated, his head finding its familiar spot on Roman’s chest. He listens to the strong, steady beat of Roman’s heart under his ear, a rhythm more calming than any crowd’s roar. His eyes slip closed as he feels Roman reach over to the nightstand and grab several tissues, then gently cleaning Cody up before doing the same to himself. Cody snuggles back into Roman after he’s finished.

Roman’s fingers trace lazy, absent patterns on Cody’s back. “You good?” he murmurs, his voice thick with satisfaction.

Cody nods against his chest. “Never better.” He tilts his head up, meeting Roman’s dark, contented gaze. “I love you.”

A slow, easy smile spreads across Roman’s face, the one that’s only for him. “I love you more, baby boy.” He kisses Cody’s forehead, then his lips, soft and sweet. “Get some sleep.”

Cody’s eyes are already drifting shut, the combined exhaustion of the match, celebratory after-party, and reunion sex pulling him under. He’s almost asleep when he feels Roman shift, propping himself up on an elbow. Cody cracks an eye open. Roman is looking down at him, his expression suddenly playful but intense.

“Actually,” Roman says, his voice a low, intimate murmur that sends a delicious thrill down Cody’s spine. “I’m not nearly done with you yet.” His hand slips under the sheet, his fingers skating down the curve of Cody’s hip, a promise of everything still to come.

Suddenly Cody isn’t so tired anymore.

You felt the weight of the world fall off your shoulder
And to your favorite song, we sang along to the start of forever

The smile on Cody’s face is wide and bright as he unlocks the front door to his Atlanta home on this early Sunday morning. And why shouldn’t it be? It’s been less than a week since his historic Wrestlemania win, and he’s fresh off a week of both Raw and Smackdown, as well as media appearances in between. The high of being the face of WWE is unlike any other position he’s been in with professional wrestling. 

But better than that is what waits for him behind the door. It’s not just that Pharaoh will be home after being apart from his precious pup for the last two weeks. It’s the fact that Roman will be there. Roman’s been there, for most of the week in fact. 

When he finally crosses the threshold and tosses  his bags to the floor, he listens for the sound of his two guys. It’s still fairly early, so he wouldn’t be surprised if they aren’t awake for the day yet. However he quickly catches the scent of coffee in the kitchen and then hears the sound of exciting yapping from the backyard.

After he follows his nose to the coffee pot and satiates his need for caffeine, Cody walks toward the back of the house and leans happily against the sliding glass door leading to his patio. The sight in front of him is one he wasn’t sure he’d ever see again. Roman is barechested, sweatpants hanging low on his hips, hair loose and wavy around his shoulders. Pharaoh is excitedly chasing down the ball Roman has just thrown for him before excitedly running it back, starting the process all over again. Cody notices that each time the dog runs his ball back, Roman takes a few seconds to scratch behind his ears before starting a new throw. 

It all makes Cody’s throat tighten. He remembers the day they brought Pharaoh home from the rescue center to Cody’s small apartment. Then when they moved in as a little family of three to their shared home in Orlando. Pharaoh had always felt like both of theirs, and for a long time, he was the only remaining connection Cody had to Roman. He’d look at the dog and feel as though a piece of Roman were there with him and sometimes it wasn’t so bad. Other times it was excruciating. 

But now they’re all back together and it’s everything. 

Not realizing he’s been spotted, Cody jumps in surprise when Pharaoh runs up to him barking and wagging his tail. He laughs and steps outside onto the patio, bending down to ruffle Pharaoh’s fur and nuzzle the top of his head quickly. “Hi Pharaoh, missed you so much!”

Cody stands up just in time to bump into a solid wall of a Samoan man with extremely grabby hands, pulling Cody into a tight embrace. Cody chuckles as his face burrows into the space between Roman’s neck and shoulder. 

“You’re home,” Roman murmurs against the shell of his ear. Cody tries and fails to cover the shiver this action causes. “We missed you.” 

“Missed my guys too,” Cody readily admits. “Couldn’t wait to get back. It's been a long week.” 

“But a good one,” Roman says knowingly. “Life of a champion, baby.” 

Cody smiles again, a satisfied thrill making his heart thump when he remembers he’s living his dream. And when he’s done living his dream at the end of each week, he now gets to come home to his dream man. 

But as Roman takes Cody’s hand to guide him back into the house, Cody remembers that they only just got back together and it’s too soon to be thinking of such permanence as living together again.

Isn’t it?

Cody shakes the thought away when Roman asks him what he wants for breakfast, instead choosing to focus on this perfect moment in time.

Later that afternoon they are stretched out on the couch, making out lazily as though they have all the time in the world. 

When it hits Cody once again that they really do have time on their side and they’re playing for keeps, he has to pull away from Roman to take a deep breath and get his head straight. 

Roman’s eyes crinkle in concern. “What’s wrong baby?” A soothing hand runs up and down Cody’s back. 

And suddenly Cody can’t breathe with how happy he is. He always hoped; he tried to keep his belief in them and their future, but it’s really here now and he is overwhelmed with a deep sense of joy.

Tears spring to his eyes and he tells himself to say something before Roman assumes the worst, but instead he buries his head in Roman’s chest, unable to vocalize his thoughts. 

“Sweetheart, you’ve got me worried here,” Roman murmurs against his head. “Considering this is twice within a matter of weeks making out with me has made you cry, I’m starting to have a complex that I’ve become a terrible kisser.”

Cody chuckles at Roman’s lame attempt at a joke and presses a chaste kiss to Roman’s cheek. 

“There is nothing wrong,” he promises. “Everything, absolutely everything, is finally right. I wished and dreamt and hoped for so many years, and now you’re here. We got so off track…” Cody stutters for a moment before clearing his throat. “But we’re back together, in this house, with our dog. I’m back in the WWE with you. It’s perfect, Ro.”

Roman’s eyes glitter with emotion, unashamed of the tears that pool. He cups Cody’s face tenderly in his palms, gazing reverently at him. “You’re perfect, baby. I am so unbelievably happy you forgave me and we’re here. I know I don’t deserve—”

“Stop that right now,” Cody scolds lightly. “You do deserve. We deserve.”

Roman nods in acceptance and rests his forehead against Cody’s. “I feel like I’m living in a dream,” he whispers. 

“It’s not a dream, Ro. It’s real. You’re here, I’m here,” Cody motions to Pharaoh who is curled lazily on the floor next to them. “And we’ve got our boy. It’s real.”

Roman sighs shakily and presses his forehead to Cody’s. “I’m so happy, baby. Not looking forward to flying out Tuesday.”

Cody’s heart sinks when he remembers that Roman is scheduled to begin filming his new movie mid-week in Los Angeles, and needs to fly home to Tampa before that. Thankfully filming isn’t slated to take more than a couple weeks, but then Roman will be back in Florida and Cody will be traveling for Smackdown and coming home to Atlanta in between.

Before he can even stop himself or contemplate moving too fast, it all comes tumbling out. 

“I hate that we live in two different cities and at least for the next few months you won’t be at work. It’s going to be hard to find time together and I don’t want distance to come between us this time,” Cody blurts out in what sounds like one stream of consciousness. 

Roman blinks several times before a small smile overtakes his handsome features. “Glad I’m not the only one thinking five steps ahead.”

Cody’s heart starts racing and his hopes begin to lift. 

“Ro…”

“Cody…”

They both chuckle nervously after talking over each other, but Cody gently presses a thumb to Roman’s lips. Gently rubbing Roman’s full bottom lip, Cody gathers every ounce of courage available to him, closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

“Move in with me,” he suddenly blurts out. He wanted it to come out smoother and more romantic, but his mouth was apparently far ahead of his brain. 

And Cody would laugh at the way Roman’s eyes go wide if he weren’t so damn nervous. But Roman quickly gets over his shock and presses his mouth against Cody’s hard, immediately causing Cody to melt into him.

After several moments the two men part, trying to steady themselves by holding on to one another.

“Is that a yes?” Cody asks breathlessly.

Roman lets out a shaky laugh and nods. “Yes,” he breathes. “Everyone is going to think we’re crazy and it’s too fast. But I want this.”

“I don’t care, Ro,” Cody emphatically says. “I don’t care if it’s too fast or what others think. Frankly this is six years overdue. And I don’t want to waste any more time.” 

“Neither do I,” Roman agrees. “This is forever for me, baby boy.” 

“Forever,” Cody says back sweetly. 

And as they lean in to seal their promise with another kiss, there’s something about the way Roman’s deep brown eyes sparkle in this moment that will be forever embedded in Cody's heart. 

Some things just, some things just make sense
And even after all this time I'm into you
Baby, not a day goes by that I'm not into you